Which 3-wire Alternator?

I've read most if not all of the posts on alternator conversions but a few questions remain. First, do the Delco units bolt up to the existing brackets used for the stock setup without modification? This is for a '70 CJ5 with a V6 engine. Second, which 3-wire alternator should I buy? In other words, should I ask for an alternator from a '68 Camaro, '72 Firebird, etc?

 

Im not sure about the v-6 bolting up ques ,but most auto stores you can ask for a gm 3 wire and amp put out and they will get you what you need. Its also good to check the postion of the wire outlets to make sure they come out where its convenant for you, if there not on the side you want them on have them rotate the rear half for you. HTH

 

Opps I should add the standard gm 3 wire alt is 63 amps. Most stores stock a 63 / 7? / 9? and some even carry the massive 105 amp :twisted:

 

Good question - What size alternator would you guys recommend? The only added load to the electrical system would be a 8000# winch.

 

The motor is a GM engine and uses all GM brackets so yes it is a direct fit. I put a 1 wire 67 amp model in mine, go to a Napa dealer and just tell them you want a GM delco alternator for an old Jeep conversion they'll usually give you the cheapest one they can find. There really not model specific on the older style vehicles.

 

On my way to NAPA this morning.

 

Back to square one. Stopped by NAPA this morning and they knew nothing about 3-wire alternators, Jeep conversions, etc. I guess there's good NAPAs and not so good ones. Regardless, they did have an alternator for a '68 Camaro that supposedly used the type I'm looking for but they weren't made by Delco. Do other manufacturers make a 3-wire alternator of the type needed for my conversion? I read somewhere that the Delco unit is a good choice because the internal regulator is in the form of a module that is easily replaced. True?

 

I'm guessing the boys behind the counter still had drool and snot running down there chins by the ignorance that they showed. Find an old mom/pop place the doesn't use a computer. I think other companies copy the delco style now and these youngin's took you literally when you said a delco.


Napa online lists this as a single groove pulley, 63 amp with internal regulator,
Item#: RSE2134011 $36.99 w/$11.00 core charge.

 

Thanks Mike. I'll head back to NAPA with the above number. BTW, how did you wire your ammeter?

 

my Napa was an independent auto parts dealer for years before they switched. one of the owners is a good friend of mine is a hotroder and drag man the other owner is a old dodge motor head and harly guy the other employees are their sons so they know a bit to lol . So yes there are good napas and not so good ones. Now the advance in town is run by my friend mitch's (hotrod napa owner) brother , he only imploys not heads so you got to have year model and all that boha when you go in there , which is why I dont lol.

 

To many years ago, I don't remember and wiring of this nature is no where near my expertise, ask Billy or one of the other guys, there was at one time a diagram somwhere around that showed how.

 

I skipped the amp meter and went with a volt meter.

 

Can't help with the wiring, but here's a page that should give you some ideas and more info that you can shake a stick at about the Delco 10SI,
including which cars to ask for regarding post placement, part numbers, etc....

http://www.madelectrical.com/electricaltech/delcoremy.shtml

HTH

 

Seems like its in line to the battery terminal on starter switch which is comming from the battery terminal on starter solinoid? IIRC.Prolly not much help or right someone correct me if I'm not right. Any way voltmeters are easier and reflect more accuracy of your system. IMHO.

 

Good link! Now, I have to figure out what clock position or position for the 2-wire connector is best for our V6. Seems like the 3:00 position would work best. Comments?

Mike - You're right about the 10si using the same mounting brackets. Perfect fit.

 

Like was said above, any Delco unit should bolt right in. However just watch the location of the plug on the alternator. I pulled one out of the junkyard and had to return it because the plug was interfering with the mount.

 

Personally.... I would NEVER buy an Alternator or starter from NAPA.. The return rate is far to high. There are better sources for sure. check around in your area and find a local rebuilder. They will usually have better quality rebuilds at a better price.
Please don't take this as a stab at NAPA... I feel they are a fine store. But after managing a Auto shop for 10 years I just found that the quality of thier rebuilt Electrical parts to be very poor.
Hope this helps.
Reaney in NH

 

Yes, NAPA "rebuilt" alternators are often no good. When I got one for the Jeep I put up the money for the NAPA Gold alternator. It was about $90 but had a good warrenty - as in they will pay the tow truck bill if it fails. I think I asked for one for a late 80's chevy truck.

I would not recommend the low $ NAPA rebuilds.

If you wanted to go cheap just go to the junk yard and get a used one. Then check the brushes or just replace the brushes. If the donor car has a lot of miles you could also change out the bearings. I've only done a few of them but they're generally easy to take apart and put back together.

 

Steve,

Wished I'd seen your post earlier. If you haven't bought an alternator yet try Broadway Auto Electric (619) 461-4555 they are right near you in Lemon Grove.

The place looks like a dump but they know there stuff. They are frequented by the classic restoration guys and hot rodders. Best for price too!

 

Thanks Joe but I just purchased one this morning. Coincidence that you posted though. I followed your recommendation by going with the 3-wire setup. Hope you stay tuned to the forum because I have a few questions that remain about wiring the 10SI especially incorporating an ammeter.