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High output alternator

Posted: Sun May 02, 2021 11:38 pm
by rcodea1
gents, looking for some assistance. i have the 170amp alternator, AC DELCO 92254798.

When driving, i see ~13.5V or sometimes less than that. I am thinking that i need to upgrade to something more like 200 or 220 amps.

Anyone know what or whom makes a HO alternator?

Re: High output alternator

Posted: Mon May 03, 2021 12:36 am
by elc32955
That's typical behavior for the Caprice alternator. On many GM's you'll see a drop in voltage in a little while after starting, my 08 Sierra routinely drops below 13 volts. GM has a TSB out on it as a result of customer concerns, they say this is perfectly normal behavior to extend the life of the charging system components. I was getting ready to cross the Ocala National Forest in my truck and saw the voltage drop from 14+ to 12.6V abruptly and needless to say I was a bit "concerned" at that point. I had visions of being stuck overnight in a national forest awaiting a visit from Mr. Bear and friends on the side of the road....

I know I didn't answer your question but wanted to reassure you that the alternator behavior seems to be normal. I see that also with my car.

Thanks
Eric

Re: High output alternator

Posted: Mon May 03, 2021 12:17 pm
by s/c'd cav
welcome to computer controlled alternators , the computer controls the voltage and amp out as it sees the needs , so unless you are having a issue with the battery and starting , things are completely normal

Re: High output alternator

Posted: Mon Jul 19, 2021 9:29 am
by #802PalmBeach
Mine intermittently stops charging from the alternator and throws a battery light on the dash. Also elevates the idle to 1100 rpm. If it is doing it on purpose then why is the alternator whining so loud and warning me there's a problem?

Or do I just need a $400 alternator..???

:(

(Interstate battery good, $60 Nascar belt, the stock tensioner is still ok and only minor/moderate amount of oil on the alternator from the stupid ass power steering reservoir leaking)

Re: High output alternator

Posted: Wed Jul 21, 2021 12:01 pm
by #802PalmBeach
#802PalmBeach wrote: Mon Jul 19, 2021 9:29 am Mine intermittently stops charging from the alternator and throws a battery light on the dash. Also elevates the idle to 1100 rpm. If it is doing it on purpose then why is the alternator whining so loud and warning me there's a problem?

Or do I just need a $400 alternator..???

:(

(Interstate battery good, $60 Nascar belt, the stock tensioner is still ok and only minor/moderate amount of oil on the alternator from the stupid ass power steering reservoir leaking)
An update to my personal situation regarding this:

We are having the OEM alternator (completely shot @ 105k miles) REBUILT for $96 out the door! By a very reputable local alternator shop.
As a contingency plan I also ordered a $250 one from Rock Auto that's a cheese richard brand but direct fit and 170a

So no $600 alternator or being without a car (for that reason anyway...) for me

stay tuned for our Caprice from satan build thread full of pain bloodshed misery and chaos. Coming soon with pics