Any Advantage/Disadvantage to running a 160 amp Alternator

[Rallye455]

I noticed that MSD sells a 160 amp alternator. Any Advantage/Disadvantage to running a 160 amp Alternator versus say a 100 or 130?

[6'9"Witha69]

Do you need 160 amps? Do you have a serious stereo system which will be running full tilt in mid summer traffic with 2 fans full speed and high beams on, etc.?

Not trying to bust balls, just wondering why you think you need that much when a properly setup vehicle (i.e. relays, variable speed fans and moderate stereos) need only 90-110 amps.

That and, is it a 1 wire or 3. 3 wire setups need less max output and work better at idle to maintain power.

[Rallye455]

I never said I thought I needed that much. I'm thinking of buying and MSD alternator and the 100, 130 and 160 are all the same cost. I'm just wondering are there any disadvantages to having one with that much output.

[parsonsj]

Rallye, I see you're new.

We are big fans of people using real names here. If you don't mind, take a minute and edit your signature to include your name. You can add your location at the same time.

As far as disadvantages of larger alternators, remember that nothing comes for free. At the very least the higher output alternator will cost more. It will also use more horsepower to generate that higher output. So Nick's right: figure out what you need and then pick the alternator that best matches it.

jp

[ProdigyCustoms]

Most times the higher the peak amperage is, the lower the idle and cruising amperage. So unless your going to run around at high RPMS you won't get the advantage of that 160 amp. Most of us really need the most amperage at a idle in traffic with the A/C going, electric fans and stereo. This is where most cars are weak.

I found Powermaster to have the best ldlleing amperage, their 130AMP makes 80AMP at idle.

[H2Ogbodies]

Even 80 amps @ idle can be excessive if you are not using the current-otherwise, your regulator is just getting real hot, along with your wiring. The issue with ANY high output alternator is the ability to shed heat because they get very warm producing that kind of current-sure, MSD's alternators will put that 160 amps out but for how long? What kind of lifespan will it have? And, a good way to gauge how much current you need, simply add up the MAX. amperage demand of your entire vehicle and all of it's accessories, then take 70% of that figure as the required amperage rating you should be looking for in an alternator.

[Topless69]

Pefect timing on this thread. I was just shopping for an alternator. thanks for the info guys.

[MonzaRacer]

Hate to tell ya but the regulator will decide what is required at any speed as well as charge rate. I sell 140 amp CSI 144 GM alternators and you could getthem at one time at Autozone for 159 bucks, as well as slim starters too and they have lifetime warranty, last set I sold (of both with wiring, plug(s), remote solenoid etc the alt lasted 143k and starter isstill going with headers around it.