Alternator connections?

[jefftrexler]

I have replaced the alternator a few times in my 1991 Q45 and I am curious. What do all the connections on the back of the alternator go to? There is a 8ga. bolt terminal, a 16ga. bolt terminal and a plug style connector. I'm devising a plan to replace the alternator with an aftermarket 200amp alternator. It will however require some fancy wiring. The service manual doesn't go into detail with this info. Any help would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks!!!

[jefftrexler]

>Ben Stein from "Ferris Beulers day off"<Anybody??? Anybody???

[Q45tech]

Don't understand why you have replaced the alternator multitimes? OEM alternators last at least 200,000 miles if kept clean [road dirt removed so cooling airflow occurs] and coupled to the correct battery [replaced every 2.5-3.0 years].Many aftermarket rebuilds are lucky to make it a year as they are just cleaned up used units which have been abused. Same with putting a new alternator on a more than 2 year old battery just frys the new unit.

Redesigning the electrical system requires more than just a bigger alternator all the wiring is designed [in diameter resistance to work just right with the factory unit].

The pully reduction allows 34 amps at idle [1300 alternator rpm], and at least 105 amps @ 5,000=2500=75 mph and more than 82 amps at 40 mph.

Page EL-24-25 of shop manual shows everything you need to redesign.

[landtodd]

Don't understand why you have replaced the alternator multitimes? OEM alternators last at least 200,000 miles if kept clean

Lemme guess -- it was a non-factory rebuilt! Particularly with fuel pumps and alternators -- h-ll with any critical electrical part -- factory parts are the ONLY way to go. I know, I know -- it seemed like saving $100 made sense at the time. I understand. If I'm wrong about that, Dennis's comment about the battery is still right on.