Alternator question

[SixT4Driver]

Looking for feedback on alternators. I have a 64 Belvedere with a big block. It has the stock alternator (35ish amps?). I have a Mopar electronic ign conversion with no other power accessories. I want to upgrade the charging system with a later (70 and up) and higher amp alternator but I have read that I won't gain anything at idle. Is this a problem? I may add an electric fan or fuel pump at a later date and prefer to make a change only once. I really don't want to use the GM conversions that provide high amps at idle (all Mopar all the time!). Any words of wisdom? Thanks.

[dave571]

The best you can do with the stock look and feel, is the 78A unit used in later models (early 80's)

It will make more at idle than those old ones did.


If you already have the newer style regulator, then it's a straight swap.

If not, you can swap to the newer setup, OR just ground the second terminal, and it will work fine.

If you want more, the denso swap has become quite popular. You can find details on it if you look around.

Hope this helps.

[SixT4Driver]

Will the 78A model fit my current alternator brackets? Thanks!

[HighMaintenance]

Originally Posted by SixT4Driver

Will the 78A model fit my current alternator brackets? Thanks!

Yep..you can always elongate the slots more...

H/patrol alt with larger pulley is hot tip

[ehostler]

The Denso conversion is in the tech archives. The Denso alternator will keep up at idle. I would just ground one leg of the alt and then replace the relay style regulator with a solid state replacement.