78 alternator upgrade to ZXT?

[78sid]

Alternator has bit the dust. I've done the headlight upgrade and I've got a pretty high amp stereo. Yesterday when running the stereo, lights, and windshield washer, the amp gave up the ghost. It was about the only mechanical component that hadn't been replaced or rebuilt. Since I'm running a higher load with accessories, I was thinking of making a change from the 78 60amp to the ZXT 70amp. I'm thinking this a good step without pushing the limits of my wiring. I've still got the OEM fuse box and fusible links. I'll upgrade those later, but I need the car back on the road, ASAP.

Any thoughts would be appreciated. Good plan and step?

[Zed Head]

If you go a parts store and ask for a 280ZXT alternator you'll get a 60 amp NA alternator. They're stocked under the same part number. You only get the higher amperage at higher RPM anyway so if you don't have a problem at idle a higher rating won't change anything.

There are many other options out there, some expensive, some cheap but requiring some extra work. How much do you want to spend, time and/or money?

By the way, you said the amp died. Did you mean alternator?

[78sid]

Thanks, Zed. Yes, I meant the Alternator died. I'm heading to Auto Zone to confirm the status before I take any additional steps after discovering what you said about the ZXT.

Kinda leaning towards the AC Delco 78a change out, but a little concerned about what I'm going to get at lower RPM's after reading some of the posts relating to output. I can handle the project itself. I'm concerned about any more amperage without making some other changes to my wiring. Honestly, I'm not sure if that is a valid concern, but it is my concern.

My feeling about money and time is that I don't want to spend either on something that is not going to get the job done. If I have to spend more of either to get what I need to solve the problem, I won't miss any meals unless it's because my hands are dirty.

I haven't run across a significantly more expensive solution. Unless, it involves some of the other standard upgrades to the electrical systems.

Thanks for the help.

[Zed Head]

Here's one fairly spendy solution - Z Specialties Online Store - If we don't have it in stock, we can get it!

Maxima 90 amp alternators will bolt in but require a pulley change, re-wiring of the plug and possibly some grinding of the housing for pulley clearance.

The CS130D seems to be a popular GM alt. swap also but takes some mounting bracket work, and wiring.

But you can also gain an amp or two at idle by cleaning all of your connections and grounds, and putting a few things on relays, like headlights and running lights. Any old, resistive connection will waste some amperage creating heat.

Edit - Forgot to say that your wiring will be damaged by the load that's on the other end, combined with the current that's available. Your battery has much more amperage available than any alternator you'll ever install. A dead short on battery alone will fry any wire in the car, even with no alternator installed.

Edited August 18, 2013 by Zed Head

[78sid]

Thanks Zed. The alternator was fine. I had reversed the fusible links. Had a 50 on the 80. I've replaced that one, and I'll be upgrading the fusible links in the near future.

I'll also probably buy one of these HO alternators. "Bolt on" might be worth my time.

Thanks again.