130 versus 165 AMP alternator

lotzagoodstuff · Sep 24, 2016

Preparing for the cold season, looking at alternators. I don't want to do all the extra work to go to the 200+ AMP alternators as I don't have any extra electrical demand, but I'm thinking about the 165 AMP upgrade versus the stock 130 my truck has currently. My question is: the 215 AMP DB Electric version requires a little work and bigger cables to support. Is the 165 AMP a bolt in deal or do I need to update cables for the extra current?

DaveBen · Sep 24, 2016

What you should be asking; Is my current alternator doing its job properly? If it is then why switch? If is is lacking, then you should switch. You will need to update the wire from the battery to the alternator to carry the added current, even with the smaller upgrade. That is a 35 amp upgrade and that is NOT small!

IDIoit · Sep 24, 2016

updating your alt charging wire is NEVER a bad idea.
at a min, I would run another 12V +wire of the same gauge to the other battery

lotzagoodstuff · Sep 24, 2016

Thanks DaveBen. I upgraded starter and replaced both batteries last Fall, and of course we had a pretty mild winter. My current alternator charges ok, but the output is low at idle, I'd like to fix that but going all the way to the 215 AMP definitely requires new cables and connectors. The 165 AMP isn't that much more money, and if it's just one upgraded cable I'd still consider it, just trying to make an educated decision.

DaveBen · Sep 24, 2016

None of the alternators will charge much at idle. They need rpm's to do their work. If you are concerned go with the 165 amp one. 215 is made for ambulances and police cars with all of the lights, radios and other electric gear.

79jasper · Sep 24, 2016

Also could bump your idle up.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G935A using Tapatalk

FORDF250HDXLT · Sep 24, 2016

a properly functioning 130a 3g alt should be pumping out 100a.......at idle. :cool

http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum...26658-3g-alternator-facts-its-wins-agian.html

with the factory 130a 3g in both my trucks i can;

chip truck;
plow snow with electric cooling fans on.tilt the dump bed up/down if needed to transfer weight to rear wheels for added traction,listen to the radio with the amp going.

log tuck;
use the auto crane all day long,so long as the truck is idling.
(without truck running,the cranes battery will go flat inside 10 mins)

i have never been in want for more juice with either truck.im not claiming you may need more than i need but odds are high if your not doing things like this and your current 130a isn't keeping up,than you just need a replacement.

130 versus 165 AMP alternator

lotzagoodstuff

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lotzagoodstuff

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