Battery and alternator questions...

[TurboTuli]

Hey,My car wouldn't start and first signs pointed to starter, but when I had a towtruck jump me it started up fine. However a few minutes later after letting it run, the lights started to dim when I did anything the required electricity(roll down window, step on brakes) and then it died. I'm told the alternator is bad. I also had the battery tested and the guy said he couldnt get a good read ie. there was something wrong internally.

I am running dual 12" flexalite fans off a temp switch, so they aren't running all the time, and I also have a stereo system with a 650w amp running my sub. So my question is, do I need a better than stock(80 amp) alternator? And should I get a good battery? A shop i talked to said they can install a 105 amp alt for 200, but i can get stock for 80 and install myself. Let me know what you think...

[180fan]

alternator is shot. replace battery if it failed testing.

[fredejo]

depends, i have a 90 240sx & it's a b*tch replacing the alt. b/c it's @ the bottom of the motor & my car is slammed on coilovers... a 100+ amp alt is usually $100+, if u plan on running a large system (amps, etc.) definately get a bigger alt. & if u have the $ let someone else install it. vanilla moose //// i have 0 gauge power wire, a 15 farad alumapro capacitor bank, & 3 amps (totaling 2700 watts) & i've never had a problem w/ the stock alt. & my 1000 cca battery. soooooooo, get an optima batt & bigger alt if u want a big stereo, or stick w/ your small amp & get a stock alt & batt... it's up to your future stereo plans... sorry im perdy drunk... ask me 2morrowe moo cow......