High Performance Alternator - BMW Forum

BImmerN2B · 02-07-2005, 08:56 PM

Are there any high performance alternators for bimmers? I haven't seen them anywhere. I was trying to make a better stereo system for my car. Is a 318i with the 80 amper. I don't want to strain or fry any wires in there because of less of an alternator. anybody got any ideas?

jrhaile · 02-07-2005, 09:02 PM

I think there are some 140s out there :P I have one from a 328i that I know works, do you know how to tell what amperage it is?

spieluhr · 02-07-2005, 09:08 PM

if you don't want to have to deal with a new alternator and stuff, you can get batts. and/or caps.

just an idea, but i think your on the right track with a new alt.

BImmerN2B · 02-07-2005, 09:11 PM

That is a good idea too. get another battery instead of an alternator. i have the 10 speakers in the car and I added a sub box with two 12's I just want to pump them up a little bit.

BImmerN2B · 02-07-2005, 09:49 PM

questions is: can a 130 or 140 from another bimmer(e36) fit this car and what else would it require to run it?

drz · 02-07-2005, 10:01 PM

Get a 140 amp alternator. The wiring will be simpler. The thing is designed to have more current pulled out of it. Believe me, it is way better -- makes more electrical sense -- than getting an extra battery.
The alternator from other E36s should fit. I believe you do not need anything else to run it. However, do some research: since you will be pulling more current, very likely you will need your voltage regulator to have a higher power rating. I would think that the alternator's manufacturer would sell you the alternator with a properly rated voltage regulator already in it. Therefore, I believe it shouldn't be much trouble. Make sure to inquire about these things before you buy anything.

Rooz · 02-07-2005, 10:04 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by jrhaile@Feb 7 2005, 10:02 PM
I think there are some 140s out there :P I have one from a 328i that I know works, do you know how to tell what amperage it is?

[snapback]287657[/snapback]

Advance Auto parts will chk that out for you for free...

BImmerN2B · 02-08-2005, 11:24 AM

HMM, GREAT INFO GUYS, THANXS. JUST ONE MORE, WOULD I HAVE TO CHANGE THE CABLE THAT COMES OUT OF THE ALTERNATOR TO ANOTHER GAUGE SINCE I AM CHANGING MY ALTERNATOR AMPERAGE?

Rookie · 02-09-2005, 12:15 AM

You know that is a good question. I am running an optima red top, with a really nice cap/batt in addition and I still get really bad light dim. Do you know if all stock E36 alternators are only 80 amperage?

By the way the battery and cap idea is ok, but it is a major band aid, and is not really worth the cash, do it once and do it right just get the alternator!