Alternator upgrade in ‘87 4Runner

[viesail]

I just got my AC working for the first time since I got my ‘87 4Runner 9 years ago. My stock alternator is not keeping up. I’m looking at two options:

160A High Output Alternator for 1985 - 1991 Toyota 4Runner 2.4L L4 | PowerBastards.com | PowerBastards.com

160A high output alternator for 1985 - 1991 Toyota 4Runner 2.4L L4. Built for car audio, upgraded electrical performance, and extreme-duty applications.

www.powerbastards.com

or

Toyota High Output Alternator

Toyorta High Output Alternator

www.davezoffroadperformance.com

I had the 140a LCE in mind too, but I’ve seen complaints.

I’m leaning towards the 160a alt from Power Bastards so I can go wild one day with my dual AGM, and accessories (lighting/camping/recovery) I’ve always wanted.

So saying I go with the 160a alt and a “Big 3” upgrade, what size fuse should I put in between the alt and batt? I see recommendations for 250/300a and 160a. Thanks

 

[97heavyweight]

Look into a Cadillac 500 alternator. I believe mine bench tested at 190amp and using a trail gear chevy to toyota alternator it will fit. You'll never lack for power. The idling amp is what really matters and most of the repalcement higher amperage alternators still only have 40amp idle.

 

[OSV]

i have a single-wire 140amp aftermarket gm alternator on my '86 4runner, as i recall the thing to remember is that the electronics severely limit the charge current, to lead acid battery standards... agm batteries can handle a much higher charge current, but you can't take advantage of that with the alternator.

so getting one of these hi-amp alternators is rather pointless unless you have a winch, an on-board welder, perhaps an electric cooler, etc.

i did it 10 years ago or so, but never put a big fuse in because things changed and i still don't have any of those high-draw items.

i remember some caveat about needing resistance in the circuit to excite the alternator(?), and it was somehow being done with the dashboard lights, but you are supposed to wire a small resistor into the circuit in case the lights burn out... that's probably not an issue with the high-power toyota alternator.

if you want to order from dave i'd suggest calling him up first, make sure he's still in business and that he can get the part.