I just put in a new/recon alternator from NAPA and all of a sudden the engine got quieter. Come to think about it, it sorta makes sense. Before my voltage read 12 or less when idling and 12 when it wasnt running and the battery was running down slowly but surely . Now it reads 13 or so when idling and 12 not running. The thing is with a little more amps the car runs smoother, has more zest and is quieter. Who knew? Word up!!!

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84 Duke, Holley TBI, Manual Trans 4.10, CompuCam, White

I experienced something similar. Except my gauge red 14volts.

Could also be new bearings in the alternator, vs. worn out ones.

Your car will run better with proper voltage ,,this is the main reason you should not drag race or autocross with a total loss system,,as the volts available drop,, the electronic systems performance drops ,, with the alternator not working a car will cover a lot of miles on just the battery.. BUT you should not use the cigarrette lighter or any units that sap power if you want to get home..might need to use starter
I would like to run a hawker or odessy 12 to 15 pound battery,,but years of experience show an Optima red top in the engine bay (crappy install for now)) With a street daily driver,,or a car you use just 20 miles a week on the street ,,use a regular battery..with some reserve crank (iritable huh)

You can use smaller regular battery to save 5 to 10 pounds ,,A top quality battery has saved my butt a few times from being stuck in some place I did not want to be (like heavy bat travel areas)
you do not want to be broke down with your lady.. all ladies knows bigger is better

[This message has been edited by uhlanstan (edited 08-29-2009).]

i need a new alternator bad. how much did it cost for you guys? i need a higher amp one, i have a sound system in my fiero.

quote Originally posted by ethan555: i need a new alternator bad. how much did it cost for you guys? i need a higher amp one, i have a sound system in my fiero.

I paid $92 at Napa for the 94 amp. It was a few bucks more than the rest but they had it in stock. Kinda pricey I know but I did rule out wiring, connections, battery etc.. so it was neccessary.

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84 Duke, Holley TBI, Manual Trans 4.10, CompuCam, White

Buy a rebuilt 88 fiero unit.. I have had good luck with duralast ,, there is a percentage of bad units with almost any rebuilt unit ..including duralast....

Napa is normally more expensive, but consistent good quality

The voltage from an alternator is controlled by the stator and windings


when you convert system to rolling sound blaster you need a top quality battery ,,many are to cheap to purchase an optima ,,but a top of the line battery will prevent future starting problems ,
Do not cheap out on the battery
Do not forget the auto parts stores often resell new batteries that the customer returned for who knows what reason.. these batteries have been checked for proper rate and priced at 1/3 to 1/4 the new price ..I manage to get an optima for $30.00 for the fiero and a top of the line $100.00 battery for my Jimmy..advance and autozone do this ,, Check out the supply each timeyou are in a parts store untill you find a battery you and your stable of cars can have a long term relationship with

check out Patrick recent post ""questions on swapping over to a newer style of alternator on my 86 " " use search feature at top of tech this will get you the info you want..

[This message has been edited by uhlanstan (edited 08-29-2009).]