Alternator Questions

[Wolfj359]

I just replaced my alternator with an optima lifetime 120 amp alternator from oreilly's and it charges about 13.5-13.7 but when I turn on the ac it barely gets over 12 volts. It says ac delco on the back of the alternator but just doesn't perform like I think it should. Should I go with a different alternator or did I just get a dud? I know its hard to find good alternators for these cars.

 

[86gn]

Send it back and get one from www.turbobuicks.com they have the 200 amp rebuild for your old one or a 200 amp ready to install.

 

[boostcreep]

Just how much current does the A/C draw

Nick

 

[Red Regal T]

Nothing wrong with that alternator. Scanmaster #s aren't from back of alternator and read low. Don't worry about it.

 

[bird]

what pulley is on that alt? Make sure it isnt larger than youre original.

 

[Steve Hill]

13.8 at the bat would be ok *if* it would stay there. Most of the ones I've measured were 14.1-14.2 volts at ~2000. Make sure the regulator is getting full field voltage by using a wire direct from + battery post to alternator field input.
If you don't then get 14 volts at batt regulator is suspect.