Can You Use Any Alternator On Any Car?

In most cases nothing except it would work fine. If the two alternators are physically the same and wired the same it’s just a one for one swap. But make sure both alternators use the same gauge output wire in case one alternator has a higher amperage output.

Can you put a different alternator on my car?

You can install a different alternator if the mechanical configuration is the same as the old alternator and the electrical characteristics the same or better. The drive belt pulley needs to line up with the other pulleys.

What happens if you put the wrong alternator on a car?

It is used to recharge the battery after starting the engine and to power the vehicles electrical devices while the vehicle is in operation. Q) What happens if the alternator is bad? A) A bad alternator will result in a discharged (dead) battery and cause a vehicle to not start or run.

Are alternators the same for every car?

There is no such thing as a normal alternator. All operate on the same principle, but are designed to fulfill specific tasks. A car alternator is made to produce the power that type of car needs at the revs that car makes it turn. Even in car industry there is not a “normal car alternator”.

Does it matter what alternator I use?

That is, your alternator will only supply the amount of amperage a particular component demands—and no more. So high-output alternators will not harm your components or charging system, no matter how high you go with the amps.

Will alternator charge a dead battery?

But when your car is running, your alternator is fueling the battery for the next start. In order to fix a dead battery that is still carrying a good amount of voltage, driving around might be all you need to do. As we said before, the alternator will recharge the battery while your car is in motion.

Does an alternator need a battery to work?

An alternator works together with the battery to supply power for the electrical components of the vehicle. The output of an alternator is direct current (DC). When the alternator pulley is rotated, alternating current (AC) passes through a magnetic field and an electrical current is generated.

Can a faulty alternator damage a battery?

Can a bad alternator kill a new battery? Yes, very easily. A failing alternator can overcharge, which will damage the battery. An undercharging alternator will leave the battery flat, which speeds up its failure.

Are there different size alternators?

The amp rating of the alternator is matched to the vehicle’s electrical system. Older vehicles with fewer accessories may only need a 70- or 80-amp alternator, while a newer vehicle with lots of electronics and accessories may need a 120- to 160-amp alternator.

Is the alternator a generator?

No. An alternator is a device that converts mechanical energy into AC electrical energy. A generator is a mechanical device which converts mechanical energy to either AC or DC electrical energy. An alternator always induces an alternating current.

Are alternators expensive?

How much does an alternator cost depends on the type of vehicle. In some models, they can run as low as $180 and for premium vehicles, they can run over $1,000. The average cost is approximately $500.

Do I need A bigger alternator for my sound system?

You might need a bigger alternator for your sound system
When it comes to car audio, more power means more sound and vice versa. If you want your music to be big and loud with a huge bass response, you need a big amplifier with a big subwoofer—and a lot of power to run it.

Can I replace alternator with higher amp?

Yes, but be sure to install a fuse between the new alternator and the battery at the rating of the old alternator. If your vehicle came with a 100 amp alternator, and you go to a 150. You could damage the stock wiring because it is designed for 100 amps. The 100 amp fuse will protect the stock wires.

How do I tell what kind of alternator I have?

Look for a diagram under or near your fuse box cover. It will have individual amperage numbers (sometimes along with volts) already set by the manufacturer. Add up those numbers to find what amperage your alternator needs to feed the car’s electrical system. Verify this number with the part manufacturer, if necessary.

Is it the starter or the alternator?

The alternator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy allowing the car to charge the battery while you are driving. The starter works in a different way converting electrical energy of the auto into mechanical energy. Both the alternator and starter can wear out over time needing repair or replacement.

What are the signs of a bad alternator?

4 Symptoms of a Faulty Alternator

• Car Won’t Start. A dead battery almost always lies behind a car that won’t start.
• Engine Stalling. A dead alternator almost always leads to a car that won’t start.
• Electrical Issues. A dying alternator can lead to a wide range of other electrical issues.
• Unusual Sounds.

Does revving the engine charge the battery?

Revving the engine will charge the battery faster because the alternator increases this amperage. When you rev the engine, the alternator begins to run faster, which helps charge the battery.

How long does it take a car alternator to charge a dead battery?

Remember: After you’ve done a jump start, you’ll need to keep the vehicle’s engine running for around 30 minutes to allow the alternator time to charge the battery sufficiently.

What kills an alternator?

Running in full charge mode continuously can kill an alternator, so trying to have your new alternator try and charge your dead battery can result in immediate alternator failure.

What is the average lifespan of a car alternator?

Alternators have an impressive lifespan of seven years–or between 80,000 to 150,000 miles. But be careful that you are not wearing it out prematurely! Here are some common causes of early alternator failure: Alternator quality.

How do I match my alternator to my battery?

Your alternator should be capable of delivering rated output equal to the maximum acceptance rate of your house battery bank. In other words, the alternator’s rating should be equal to 25 percent (lead acid) 30 percent (gel) or 45 percent (AGM) of your total battery capacity.