Does it matter how many amps your alternator is?
The size of an alternator will most likely increase the set amperage, too. High output alternators (often found on larger vehicles) can use between 200 to 350 amps. Smaller cars by comparison, such as a Ford Mustang, will only use about 100 amps with batteries that run at about 12 volts.
Does amp affect alternator?
Running at max will heat up the alternator and eventually it will burn out. As @Brian pointed out, probably sooner than later. Most aftermarket audio systems that require higher amps also have high output alternators. Better consider an alternator upgrade when it blows up.
What happens if your alternator has too many amps?
Your alternator will only give a certain amount of power to a certain component. No matter how high the Amps are, high-output alternators won’t hurt your components or charging system.
Can a bad alternator reduce power?
The alternator provides power to the spark plugs that ignite the gasoline in your engine. When the alternator is failing, there might not be enough power in the spark plugs to keep the engine alive, which can cause it to stall for no reason while running, or to have trouble starting.
How many amps does a alternator put out at idle?
Most late model alternators produce 120 to 155 amps or more. Current output increases with engine speed, from around 20 to 50 amps at idle up to the unit’s maximum output at 2,500 RPM or higher (refer to a service manual for the exact charging output specifications for your vehicle).
Is a 160 amp alternator good?
The high amp alternator will give you more replacement juice if you are running any high amp load appliances. The 160 amp is known to be used on emergency vehicles that are at a standstill and still running lots of 12v power thru said appliances.
Is a higher amp alternator better?
Amperage is basically the amount of electrical current your alternator can supply. That is, your alternator will only supply the amount of amperage a particular component demands—and no more. So high-output alternators will not harm your components or charging system, no matter how high you go with the amps.
Can I replace alternator with higher amp?
A higher amperage alternator will not pose any problems to the vehicle’s electrical system. For example, you may have a 100 amp alternator in your vehicle and the turn signals have small wiring and will only use 10 amp of power. Upgrading to a 200 amp alternator will not affect these components.
How can I tell if my alternator is bad?
7 Signs of a Failing Alternator
- Dim or Overly Bright Lights.
- Dead Battery.
- Slow or Malfunctioning Accessories.
- Trouble Starting or Frequent Stalling.
- Growling or Whining Noises.
- Smell of Burning Rubber or Wires.
- Battery Warning Light on Dash.
How many amps should a 12 volt alternator put out?
Can a weak battery cause an alternator to go bad?
A battery that seems to be weak or has died may mean your alternator is going bad as well. An alternator can help replenish the battery in your car, but it can’t keep it going indefinitely. This means it’s important to distinguish between a weak battery and a bad alternator.
How can I tell if my car has a bad alternator?
This means it’s important to distinguish between a weak battery and a bad alternator. According to Nationwide, there are a few different ways to find out if you’ve got a dead battery or an alternator gone bad. Without starting the car, you can check the battery gauge on the dashboard.
Why does my alternator get higher than base voltage?
You should get 0.5 to 2 volts higher than base voltage. If you are getting more than 2 volts above base voltage, most likely your alternator is over-charging the battery or the battery is faulty. Other potential problems are a faulty voltage regulator or a problem in the charging system wiring.
Can a battery voltage test be done on an alternator?
One test is not enough if you are diagnosing a charging system problem. All too often, the alternator is condemned as the source of the problem if only battery voltage is present with the engine running. If this is the case, it only means that the alternator is not charging, but does not reveal why.