need a new alternator, have ordered a new wire kit from American auto wire 1wire alt. 1 wire hei kit. I think old alt. is a 63 amp would like have around a 100 amp. I have tried to use a member here but he has since ret. anyone have a little advice, Oh also have new firewall pad and the question is does the pad go first or does defrost and air condition box go on first with everything that goes on the firewall before the goes on pad
It's easier just to put a 12SI internally regulated alternator on. That is what I have. It is a 94 amp unit like this one, https://www.amazon.com/Alternator-Delco-Pulley-HYSTER-1983-1990/dp/B00SG0K5EW http://www.buickperformanceclub.com/alternat.htm
Larry, do you think the 12si alternator would be enough to run a couple radiator fans without affecting ignition voltages?
Steve, I think so, but fans can differ in their amperage requirements. Best to consult with the manufacturer.
I'm running a FiTech EFI, electric fuel pump, electronic Duraspark ignition, 2500 cfm electric fan, big stereo with amp, and my lights in my daily beater with a 100 amp 1 wire Powermaster alternator. You should be fine with something around 100 amps, but some cheaper fans do draw a LOT!
I was planning on the T/A dual fan setup to go behind the Ron Davis radiator I bought from them. No big stereo or amp, I have Mallory ignition, Comp 9000 dist and box, mechanical fuel pump. May upgrade with a small subwoofer, but nothing crazy. No power options.
Not a big fan (no pun intended) of electric fans. IMO, added complexity and expense for no gains. My motor gets cooled by a stock 18" 7 blade fan and stock clutch pushing through a 19 year old Griffin 2 row 1 1/4" tube radiator. It never goes over 185* in the worst possible conditions.
Well, my motor is different than your motor, and I wanna put some fans in. Was just looking for your opinion on the alternator output. Yes, I know, your motor is the best, everyone should just do what you did, etc and anything your motor doesn't need, no one elses needs. I get it.
Aww come on Steve, don't be like that. My motor is not the best, but I don't have any hot running problems, never have with this radiator. It's just my opinion, and everyone has one. All I'm saying is if the stock set up cools my engine, it is capable of getting the job done. The way I see it, electric fans block air flow unless they are on. My 98 Riviera will heat up in stop and go traffic and then the fans kick on and bring the temps down. With the A/C on, the fans run full time and it stays cool. I'd rather have the full time air flow and it works for me. I realize that some have problems with cooling, and I'm not sure why. Maybe I'm just lucky. Sorry if I hurt your feelings.
no worries, Larry. Tough to hurt a guys feelings if he has none, was just hoping for some more input about a product you recommended.
Everybody has feelings Steve. The last thing I want is to come off like a know it all. I'm not. That is the alternator I run, got it from Jamie when he was supplying them. I'm not running anything that really needs it though. Give Mike T a call and ask what he recommends with the fans he sells. I'm thinking 94 amps should do it.
Like Larry, I recommend the 12SI. I use one in my 64 and I run twin Spal fans and an electric fuel pump in the tank. Unlike Larry's car, my 64 won't fit the wide 68-72 radiator, but I get by with 2 row Griffin and the twin puller Spal fans. My motor is all iron stage 1 pushing 500HP at the flywheel. I do like that I can keep cool enough most days in staging lanes or in traffic with the electric fans, but I wish I could get by with a stock type fan and fan clutch. One tip for you, if you run electric fans, add a 3 way switch to the relay. Position 1 is ON and auto control by the fan T'stat. Position 2 in manual ON constant, Position 3 is OFF. I recommend turning the fans OFF when hot starting -- takes a big load off the battery and wiring.
And what I did: Duralast DL 7194-6-3 available at virtually any Autozone. Running a 13ish amp electric fan occasionally; MSD 6A box; Big Alpine Amp.
49.00 with free shipping in natural or chrome for a 100A Delctron knock off from the chinaman. Fits well and only one wire. Ya cant go wrong. ws
I'm using a 100 amp 1-wire unit on my green car. For reference on power load, I have a Fitech efi, 340lph fuel pump, mkviii electric fan, no a/c. I replaced a unit I got here that failed in short order with one of these from amazon and its been fine for 3 years now: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000CAV30...olid=3VRJLALZ7PQ28&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it
I'm going to reccomend staying away from overpriced aftermarket fans,...the trusty Mk8 fan,..ls1 fbody,...04-06 Gto fans wtc are a much better option they move more air,..are engineered for daily use and can be bought thru the aftermarket suppliers such as LKQ with a lifetime warranty
The CS130 (out of a `86-`87 Turbo Regal/GN) is a good upgrade, you can find them in 105amp to 120amp versions from parts stores. Just need an adapter for the plug on the side. We've have one on my brother's car for a few years now.