What to look for in chosing a new alternator?

[Beerhunter]

Well the time has come. My 05 GT has been kicking out P0340 codes. I know from digging into a number of threads about this code that this means the alternator is on it's way out.

Problem now is that I don't know anything about alternators (well except for basic stuff).

I do not believe I require any additional output than I had already with my factory alt but I am reaching out to find out if an upgrade will do me any good.

I have no real mods underway (few minor bolt-ons) and do not plan any in the future (possibly NOS). I am only using the factory amps that came with my Shaker 500.

What do I look for in a new alt and what are the best brands? ... oh God, I didn't just ask for the best brand did I?..... what I meant to say is... are there any brands to stay away from?

 

[AutoXRacer]

One word... OEM!!

Basically you only have one reliable option... OEM
Second option is PA Performance; I cannot recommend them as my experience was not reliable. But others have had good results.

 

[Beerhunter]

One word... OEM!!

Basically you only have one reliable option... OEM
Second option is PA Performance; I cannot recommend them as my experience was not reliable. But others have had good results.

Will a basically stock configuration take advantage of higher output or is it a waste of money (re: PA Performance). Thx AXR

 

[GreenTerror]

The Department of boost has been rumored to be working on one but I don't believe it's available yet I would send a message to them and see if they're ready to sell.

 

[Beerhunter]

The Department of boost has been rumored to be working on one but I don't believe it's available yet I would send a message to them and see if they're ready to sell.

Do I need to know a secret handshake? lol

How do I contact them? *rushes off to use search

 

[BruceH]

I replaced mine with a lifetime warranty rebuilt. Since it's so easy to change out I decided to take a chance.

 

[Beerhunter]

I replaced mine with a lifetime warranty rebuilt. Since it's so easy to change out I decided to take a chance.

Where did you get it from?

Around here (In BC) they want to charge close to $400. This is one of the reasons I am seeking help. I will have to buy from a US vendor and my return/warranty options will be limited.

 

[BruceH]

Where did you get it from?

Around here (In BC) they want to charge close to $400. This is one of the reasons I am seeking help. I will have to buy from a US vendor and my return/warranty options will be limited.

O'Reileys. How close are you to the border?

 

[Beerhunter]

We are 45 mins away and are in the US at least once a week but the closest town in the US doesn't have any decent auto stores. We use a shipping address a place called Oroville WA. Once it arrives we run down and pick it up.

 

[BruceH]

We are 45 mins away and are in the US at least once a week but the closest town in the US doesn't have any decent auto stores. We use a shipping address a place called Oroville WA. Once it arrives we run down and pick it up.

I believe I've been there once when I went to Lake Wannacut. It sounds like you have a plan.

 

[Beerhunter]

I believe I've been there once when I went to Lake Wannacut. It sounds like you have a plan.

Ya I have to order stuff like this all the time. The problem is if I have to return it. The whole process can take so long. Bottom line is it is better to ask questions than it is to order the wrong thing.

I checked and the nearest O'Reileys is another 45 mins down the road in Omak. I think I will need to have it shipped.

 

[blownGTvert]

The Department of boost has been rumored to be working on one but I don't believe it's available yet I would send a message to them and see if they're ready to sell.

The 6g 130a oem alternator has proven to be problematic to say the least. I have the DOB 4g 200a alternator on my car now. Along with the wire upgrade it has proven to be a huge improvement to delivery power to my fuel pumps and accessories.

 

[Beerhunter]

The 6g 130a oem alternator has proven to be problematic to say the least. I have the DOB 4g 200a alternator on my car now. Along with the wire upgrade it has proven to be a huge improvement to delivery power to my fuel pumps and accessories.

How does it improve in a stock configuration though. I mean I get that if you have a blower or fuel pump upgrade then you need the extra amps but wouldn't the upgrade be an overkill for me? Not trying at all to be a smart ass. I'm just trying to understand if it is like putting in 94 octane gas without a tune

 

[bcb06gt]

I bought my alternator from Advance Auto Parts. With their internet coupon I saved a bunch, plus it was an OEM rebuilt. Been over a year now I think.

 

[GT E UPP]

PA Performance for me...

 

[AutoXRacer]

A stock configured car will not need more AMPs... So an OEM or stock like alternator would be fine.

You only need a more powerful alternator if you have accessories, fans, pumps, stereo, lights, etc. Otherwise, stock is fine.

 

[JEWC_Motorsports]

How far is Chase from you, there is a Napa there.

 

[908ssp]

There is no down side to having more amps. Also the 4g is a stronger alternator than the 6g. It simply last longer and has less failures. But getting a custom alternator does cost a bit more.

 

[RED09GT]

One word... OEM!!

Basically you only have one reliable option... OEM
Second option is PA Performance; I cannot recommend them as my experience was not reliable. But others have had good results.

How far is Chase from you, there is a Napa there.

There are at least 10 Napa stores between penticton and chase. Penticton has around 30,000 people, Chase maybe 1,000.

I say order one from Tousleys, pick it up at betta's and go from there.

 

[JEWC_Motorsports]

135 for one from Napa and they are in your backyard. Any issues you have them right there to fix the problem.