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New Alternator, what size

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tweety

tweety

Jedi Trainee
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'79 Midget.

Confirmed it today, I need an new alternator. My local parts store has a 36amp rebuilt unit on the shelf... It's $62.00.

Is that big enough? Should I go for an upgrade.

The car is stock, nothing more than a radio to draw power. I am considering an electric fan at some point down the road.

Words of advise are ALWAYS appreciated.

Thanks.
 
Assuming the parts store is the same alternator (Lucas) the amperage is fine. I put a GM Delco on mine, but, while it puts out more amps (which I appreciate even though I don't really need them) it was a cheaper option than having my Lucas rebuilt.
 
36 amps is OK for what you have. Problem is that, someday, you might want to add something that draws more current, and then it may be marginal. It's always a good idea to add a little extra room for growth and error. 55 amp alternators are no more expensive, but you might have to do a little redesign to make one fit.

You might want to take a look at the article on alternator conversions in the Wiki; it addresses some of these issues.
 
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