OEM vs. Aftermarket Alternaters on a 99 TJ

What to do about the alternator?

  • Go to Jeep and get an OEM

    Votes: 1 25.0%
  • Go to NAPA and get a High Output

    Votes: 1 25.0%
  • Buy a Mean Green Alternator

    Votes: 1 25.0%
  • Buy an alternator from: (insert your favoirte)

    Votes: 1 25.0%
  • It really does not matter, they are all good.

    Votes: 0 0.0%

  • Total voters
    4

sargeek

Adventurer
OK - So it seems that my OEM alternator is going out on my 99 Jeep TJ. The TJ had rear window deforster, AC and the other options, so I am sure that it has a relatively hight output alternator from the factory. No winch or dual batteries, but I have keep this thing for 13 years and 182K and don't mind spending some money on the TJ.

Any recomendatons for alternaters to install? OEM, NAPA, Mean Green other recomended brand.
 
Last edited:

1911

Expedition Leader
I really like my Mean Green, but it is just a GM alternator re-wound for HO.
 

Eaglefreek

Eagleless
If you can be without your Jeep for a day or two. Take your alternator to a local rebuilder. They will typically do a far better job than any rebuiler that supplies alternators to part stores.
 

Hawkz

Adventurer
My local rebuilder keeps some in stock. I exchanged mine as core and got a new one right away. Or you can give them yours and wait if you prefer...
 

Jim K in PA

Adventurer
Do some googling to get specifics, but there is a higher output alternator that was used in the 2000-2006 Dodge Durango that was rated at 160A. It is a bolt in to the later (2003-up) TJ/LJ, but I don't know if it would fit the bracket of the earlier Jeeps.

However, taking your alternator to a local rebuilder and telling him you want it wound for more LOW RPM output could be just as effective as a larger alternator. Also, keep in mind that the output of any alternator is dependent on LOAD. If your system never pulls more than 80 amps, putting a 160A capable alternator is just for show, as it will never reach full capacity. However, if you are pulling 80 amps and your current alternator is maxed out at 90A, going with a larger unit will probably prolong the life of the unit by reducing the duty cycle.

Since yours lasted 13 years and 182k miles, chances are pretty good that you don't need an upgrade. :)
 

sargeek

Adventurer
Thanks for the thoughts. I Was hoping it would last a little longer, but it wanted to become a paper weight. Went with a reman
Factored unit.
 

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