Replacing Alternator - 97 Z71

[bcrooms]

Well, my alternator kicked the can this week so I need to replace it...I am wondering if I should go for the higher output 140AMP alternator instead of the stock 105AMP.

 

Any downside to going to the higher amp'd alternator on my truck?

 

-Brandon

[Black02Silverado]

It never hurts to go to a higher amp, but can be a waste of money if you don't have the accessories that need it.  Now with LED's and such not much draw on the system like before.  Did you upgrade anything?

 

Might look at getting the original rebuilt.  That is what I did on my 2002.  It cost me $75 as to $150 for a new one at the auto parts store.  Plus it being the original one I know it fits properly.   Just a thought.

 

[bcrooms]

Just now, Black02Silverado said:

It never hurts to go to a higher amp, but can be a waste of money if you don't have the accessories that need it.  Now with LED's and such not much draw on the system like before.  Did you upgrade anything?

 

Might look at getting the original rebuilt.  That is what I did on my 2002.  It cost me $75 as to $150 for a new one at the auto parts store.  Plus it being the original one I know it fits properly.   Just a thought.

 

I haven't upgraded anything yet.  I just thought it may be a good idea to have the extra output in the future.  My truck is completely stock.

[Black02Silverado]

Just now, bcrooms said:

I haven't upgraded anything yet.  I just thought it may be a good idea to have the extra output in the future.  My truck is completely stock.

It doesn't hurt to have the extra power, but unless you add a good sized stereo with amps, I don't see the need myself.  Like I said, most lights now are LED and if you add a couple, their draw is minimal. 

[bcrooms]

1 minute ago, Black02Silverado said:

It doesn't hurt to have the extra power, but unless you add a good sized stereo with amps, I don't see the need myself.  Like I said, most lights now are LED and if you add a couple, their draw is minimal. 

I probably will be replacing the head unit in the near future so I can play audio from my phone.  I did speaker upgrades on my old 96, and that was a difficult task as the trim pieces were very fragile and I have several of the claps and trim pins break on me and the rear speakers are a pain to replace.  I doubt I would ever run an amp or sub as I'm just not in to that.

[Black02Silverado]

1 minute ago, bcrooms said:

I probably will be replacing the head unit in the near future so I can play audio from my phone.  I did speaker upgrades on my old 96, and that was a difficult task as the trim pieces were very fragile and I have several of the claps and trim pins break on me and the rear speakers are a pain to replace.  I doubt I would ever run an amp or sub as I'm just not in to that.

If it was me I would get the original rebuilt. 

[bcrooms]

3 minutes ago, Black02Silverado said:

If it was me I would get the original rebuilt. 

I'll check on pricing for that around here.  RockAuto has the 105Amp alternators for $97

[Mikebtte]

Do you tow a trailer? often times the larger alternator is nice if you have a aftermarket trailer brake controller. 

[txab]

You will need a larger drive belt when upgrading

[davester]

And just to get you to spend a couple more dollars, you might consider replacing belt idlers/tensioners (at least check them)...

[Mikebtte]

6 hours ago, davester said:

And just to get you to spend a couple more dollars, you might consider replacing belt idlers/tensioners (at least check them)...

Gates makes a nice kit with pullys/ idlers and belts.

[bcrooms]

I went with the rebuild at factory spec.  Changed it myself in about 30 minutes and back in business