It won't hurt a thing to use a higher amperage alternator. Some reasons alternators have higher outputs these days is due to tighter machining tolerances, improved voltage regulator designs, and better rectifier diodes. Another benefit of newer / higher output alternators is that they have better charging currents at idle. The old sub-50 amp alternators often wouldn't put out enough at idle to keep the battery charged. Consider what kind of loads you expect to put on the alternator and get one that delivers about 2 X the load. Things to consider are head lamps, car stereos, electric fans, etc.
Alternators and Amps
Can it hurt my car in any way to use an alternator of higher amperage than what's in it? In other words, if there is a 37 amp in it now, can I change it to a 61 amp? My alternator works, but I am thinking of replacing it with a date-code correct. If I can use one of higher amperage, it would mean a wider selection to search for.
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My car is very stock, so it will only have the basic loads - AM radio, RS headlights, a few gauges, console lights, etc. No alarm, no big stereo, etc.. Can a stock voltage regulator handle the extra amps? I assume so, since that is what they are meant for?It won't hurt a thing to use a higher amperage alternator. Some reasons alternators have higher outputs these days is due to tighter machining tolerances, improved voltage regulator designs, and better rectifier diodes. Another benefit of newer / higher output alternators is that they have better charging currents at idle. The old sub-50 amp alternators often wouldn't put out enough at idle to keep the battery charged. Consider what kind of loads you expect to put on the alternator and get one that delivers about 2 X the load. Things to consider are head lamps, car stereos, electric fans, etc.
67 camaros came standard with a 37 amp alternator. A 61 amp was used in cars with A/C, power windows, power tops, etc. Not sure if the heavy duty alternator was available as a separate option, prbably.
I'd get a 61 amp, the stock reg will be fine with it.
I'd get a 61 amp, the stock reg will be fine with it.
Don't quote me, but I seem to remember reading not to exceed 55 amps with an external regulator. Or if you exceed 55 amps the regulator needs to be adjusted. Not sure but something to research.
I know you can buy them over 100 amps. The charge current never goes anywhere near the regulator, that can't be an issue. At 100 amps, you might want to upsize the main charge wire, the red one.
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