Edzred72

I have a chance to buy a chrome rebuilt GM 100amp alternator for the 77. It's more amp than the original, so will this damage the electrical system?
Eddie

77Dream

My understanding is no. Your system will only pull the amount of amps it needs at any given time leaving the rest. But I'm no electrition.

LAvetteman

Nope, they will charge as much as they need to then slack off.

MN-Brent

Installing a 100A alternator will not damage your system. Your system will draw the amount of power it needs. You will just have more power capability to drive accessories such as upgraded stereo, additional lights, etc...

You only run into trouble if you do not have enough power capability and your upgraded system tries to draw more power than the stock alternator can supply. You will then overheat the regulator and windings in the alternator and it will fail on you.

The only down side could be a slight loss of HP due to a higher drag on the engine from the alternator. This should be real minimal though like say 1-2 HP I would guestimate.

Brent...

PatsLs1vette

youll be fine,remember every time you add something to the car,youll need more amps,this way youll be ready for it.

VETDRMS

No, as the amp draw is only as needed by the system based upon resistance.
I have a 160 amp alternator with no problems.
However this extra capacity can really burn things up should you have a short...
I had my main cable from the starter to the alternator brush against the manifold, short and go up in smoke. :eek:
The alternator managed to pump enough juice through the short to melt my wiring harness. Thank god I don't have a greasy engine compartment as I'm sure my car would have been toast. The alternator lived through it, and has been working for over a year since.

:cheers:

flynhi

You might increase the wire size from alt to starter.

Edzred72

I though it would be OK...but wanted to be sure. Thanks for all the info guys.
:cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
Eddie