What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?

[BB72CHEVKT]

I currently run an internally regulated 3 wire and need to upgrade to a high output of atleast 140 amp and wonder if there is an advantage of switching to a one wire set up.

[Andy4639]

I can't see any benifit except for the install. Once that is done they both will be the same. I have the internal 3 wire alternator and can't see anyway it could be any better.

[ole dollor]

most of the time the one wire will cost more , but its easier to wire up, the internal reg. three wire mounts the same and is also an internal reg , all you will have to do is wire up an exciter wire to kick it in every time you start it so it will charge...and most of the time they are cheaper .

[67gmcclassic]

i heard the 1 wire hookup does not charge good during idle. I think i needs an increase in rpm to excite the alternator to start charging. could be wrong tho. I would keep the 3 wire myself.

[rogergodding]

I've had the same chrome one wire alternator for at least 16 years if that means anything for you . I think it's a 120 amp.

[Andy4639]

Originally Posted by rogergodding

I've had the same chrome one wire alternator for at least 16 years if that means anything for you . I think it's a 120 amp.

My 3 wire is right at 24 years old. I installed it back when I put the TPI in the truck March 1989.

[Andy4639]

Originally Posted by BB72CHEVKT

I currently run an internally regulated 3 wire and need to upgrade to a high output of atleast 140 amp and wonder if there is an advantage of switching to a one wire set up.

If you just want more amps, why not call local alternator shop and see what they would charge to rewrap it to get a higher amperage. If they can't just buy the one that fit's your brackets that has the most amps.
These are just what I googled, haven't used any of them.


http://www.nationsautoelectric.com/highoutput.html

http://www.nationsautoelectric.com/highoutput.html

http://www.summitracing.com/search/p...mp-alternators

[BB72CHEVKT]

Originally Posted by Andy4639

If you just want more amps, why not call local alternator shop and see what they would charge to rewrap it to get a higher amperage. If they can't just buy the one that fit's your brackets that has the most amps.
These are just what I googled, haven't used any of them.


http://www.nationsautoelectric.com/highoutput.html

http://www.nationsautoelectric.com/highoutput.html

http://www.summitracing.com/search/p...mp-alternators

The local shop wanted to sell me a later model alternator. They claim it has a bigger case and they need to see the truck to make sure it will fit the brackets. They also claim that the aftermarket units are not what they claim to be. It sounds like a line of BS if you ask me. I am running a 96 amp and I am looking to go to 140 or more. I am not wanting to spend $350 bucks on one although I will if that is what I need.

[Street Smart]

Sometimes a one wire won`t start charging until it sees some RPM, so you have to tap the gas to "excite" it to get it to charge. I prefer a 3 wire so the charge light will work. it can give you an early warning of a problem.

[hayhauler71]

Here is a chart I ran across for interchange that might help http://www.qualitypowerauto.com/page...lternators.php

[Andy4639]

Well that would be a concern I guess. I would drive up there and let them show me the ones that fit and then go to the parts house of your choice to see if they can beat there price. On line also who knows you may even find a factory one on e-bay.