I think i need to replace my alternator and was wondering if anyone knows of a good aftermarket one?
thanks

 

If you go with a parts-house alternator, then I reccomend using one from NAPA, as they are known to have the best aftermarket parts of all major automtoive retailers.

I work at AutoZone full-time, so, if it helps, I can give you some information about our alternators:

1. ValuCraft is our bottom-of-the-line alternator. ValuCraft alternators ( as well as many of their other parts ) are said to be " rebuilt ", but they are actually just repaired. ValuCraft products are simply cores that have been fixed, cleaned-up, and sent-back to be resold.

2. We also offer Duralast rebuilt alternators. Unlike the ValuCraft alternators, these are actually truly rebuilt, and all internal parts are inspected and replaced. These alternators come with a lifetime warranty.

3. Duralast Gold alternators are AutoZone's top-of-the-line alternators. Unlike teh ValuCraft and Duralast alternators, these alternators are 100% new, but are also the most expensive. They even have a new case. These all come with a lifetime warranty.

If it sounds like I have recited this 1,000,000 times, it is because I have.

When you replace the alternator, make sure that your belt is not cracked and/or glazed. Faulty belts lead-to alternator failure. It is also a good idea to use anti-sieze on the alternator bolts. While you're doing all of this, remember one thing: be sure that your battery is fully-charged before you start your car back up with your new alternator. An alternator's job is to maintain a charged battey, not to charge a dead one. If you run your new alternator with a dead battery, you may be writing its death warrant.

Good luck with everything.

 

thanks for the info!
i was wondering if performance alternators exist? The ones that actually increase your power. And i've noticed some of them give out a more voltages than others, would the ones giving more power be beneficial?

 

There are companies like Ohio Generator and Powermaster that make high-output alternators, but I'm not sure exactly for what applications. Summit Racing Equipment ( 1-800-230-3030 ) carries Powermaster. Their website is http://www.summitracing.com. I had a Powermaster 140-ampere alternator on my 1972 GMC C-10 that I used to have, and it got the job done with my big stereo system.

Also, you might try contacting a generator shop in your area and seeing about having your alternator rebuilt, or perhaps beefed-up.

As faras high-output goes, you wouldn't want a higher-voltage alternator, as all electronic components in your car are part of a 12-volt system. What you are looking for is a higher amperage output rating.