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Re: At what RPM does your 350 SBC idle?
I see where new cars have as much as 140 amp alternators to handle the computers and all the power doo-dads that are now standard equipment.
But have any of you guys ever measured total current draw in an older vehicle with A/C, hi-beams, radio, brake lights, etc all energized? I did it a few years ago on a 55 Chevy. Using a DC clamp-on multimeter, the max I saw was around 35 amps! Of course the car had a basic radio, no electric radiator fans, no power windows or seats, and no computers. Engine was running and battery voltage was around 14.2 volts, as I recall.
But, hey, I still like the 12SI design, and the 2x safety margin of even 78 amps, at least for my non-power doo-dad applications. 
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Mike
1969 C10 LWB -- owned for 36 years. 350/TH350, 3.08 posi, 1st Gen Vintage Air, recent AAW wiring harness, 5-lug conversion, 1985 spindles and brakes.
1982 C10 SWB -- converted from 250-six to roller cam 350, Vortec heads -- sold
1981 C10 Silverado LWB, 305, TH350C -- sold, but wish I still had it!
1969 C10 (not the current one) that I bought in the early 1980s. Paid $1200; sold for $1500 a few years later. Just a hint at the appreciation that was coming.
Retired as a factory automation products salesman.
Worked part-time over the years for an engine builder and a classic car repair shop.
Member here for 24 years! This is the very first car/truck Internet forum I joined. I still used a dial-up modem back then!
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