The "best" alternator

[Clsccmro]

I'm in the need of an alternator for a 327 small block. I have been doing a little research and have decided that I am specifically looking for a 130-160 amp, direct plug-in (3-wire), with internal regulator. It must also fit the factory mounting locations. I have not been able to find one with this exact combo, so if anyone has any advice as to where I might find a good one, please let me know. I was looking at the new one that MSD came out with, but it seems a little pricey for no added value except for show quality. I do not want a one wire unit and it must have an internal regulator. Since I plan on upgrading a lot of my accessories and components to electrical, I would also like it to be a high output.

I also have a few questions about the install. I know that I will have to re-wire just about the entire unit with better, thicker wire. I currently have an external regulator, can I just unhook it and get rid of it since the new one will have an internal regulator, and what will I have to do with the wires that go to the current external one? Any thoughts or advice on the matter would be very beneficial and appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

[Steve N 69 69 69]

I got a CS144 alt from these guys http://www.alternatorparts.com/CS-144_Special_offer.htm
brand new Delco 140 amp, for just 169.00
They are the stock alts on lots of newer cars like Z28's, Vettes, etc.
I put one in my 71 Blazer. They put on the right pulley, and had the right case style for a stock mount, no extra charge.
They also have sick duel rectifier 200 amp versions if you need a LOT of power, but they probably need to have a serpentine belt so they don't slip the belt under load.

I pretty much rewired the charging system. I removed the old external reg.,and added larger gauge wires to the fuse panel, and to the battery. I ran the voltage sensing wire to a junction block near the bat., and the energizing wire ( brown) to one side of a light on the dash, then the other side to switched power. this way if the alt stops charging, the light comes on, also the energizing wire NEEDS the resistance of the bulb, straight power will cook the regulator in time. I've been running this alt for over a year now, and it works great.

check out http://www.madelectrical.com/electrical-tech.shtml

they have great tech articles, I pretty much followed their advice on wiring my Truck.

Later,

12183

[zbugger]

Ummm... Have you checked out Powermaster? You should be able to get what you want from them. I think they have a 140 amp 3-wire like you want. At least the last time I checked they did. You should even be able to get it from Jeg's. You might want to give them a call.

[wickedridz]

also keep in mind the case size. you didnt say if you had the small or large case. M&H electric in sante fe springs CA. sels a retro fit kit that allows you to convert over from the external style to the internal style. basically all you do is unplug the regulator and plug in this adapter to the flat plug. they also sell kits to convert over to the one wire style.

[Clsccmro]

Thanks for the help guys, I chose to go with Steve N's recommendation. I called those guys up and they were insanely helpful. He even wants me to call him so that he can help when I'm installing it! I got a CS144 alternator, 170 amp, v-belt, 3-wire, internal regulator, for $225 shipped. Thought that was a great deal and customer service was second to none. I'll be working on re-wiring most of my engine bay for the next couple weekends, so hopefully everything works out well. Thanks again guys!