What size alt?
 

What size altenator are you running? I need to purchase a new one and was wondering if I should go with more amps. My current alt is 61 amp rating. I don't have air or electric fuel pump or fans. What amperage would you guys reccomend..thanks

Re: What size alt?
 

Like a lot of things, I'm of the mind that bigger is always better.
You now have my .02.

Re: What size alt?
 

Being as you need to replace it anyways I'd go with at least a 100 amp model- you never know what sort of electrical do-dads you'll be inclined to add in the future, but at least you'll know the alt. is up to snuff.

Re: What size alt?
 

61A is the largest alternator offered in these trucks and is more than adequate for a loaded truck.It is also the maximum windings that will fit the original case.I found this out when having my alternator built for use with a snow plow.I had the 49A and that highest rating he could get out of it was equal to GM`s 61A.You`d have to go to the later right-side alternator.When converting to the later two wire internal regulator type alternators you`ll most likely be jumping up in amp rating.I ended up using one from a 6.2 diesel which is 100A.

Re: What size alt?
 

Just my personal opinion, but I would not go larger that around 60 amps or so because the wire to the battery is only 12 ga. If you had a really low battery I suspect a 100 amp charge would fry the wire or the fusable link (16 ga) that is supposed to be in there just before the battery.