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You want an alternator that's ignition protected. Otherwise: Gas fumes + spark = KA-BOOM!. Standard automotive alternators are probably not ignition protected, as gas fume build-up in an automobile engine compartment is unlikely and, even if things do catch fire, you can just get out of the car.
Edit: Looks like the link doesn't hold the selection. Just use to menu on the left to find the Atomic 4 selections. Two options - 51 amp Delco for $170 and 37 amp Leece Neville for $185.
I suppose that the stock 35 amp alternator that most A4 engines have is too small for your battery banks?
Have you priced Balmar alternators lately?
The 55 amp alt at MMI starts sounding pretty reasonably priced.
Even the 120 amp one is cheaper then any Balmar.
Good luck finding one that works with the A4 elsewhere.
The other thing you have to consider is engine load. The A4 is only 30HP engine. Start adding significant alternator load to it and you may find yourself underpowered. ISTR reading of somebody who'd done just that to themselves, back not long after I started reading SN.
But that's something I have to add to The List. I'm sure we'll want more than that 35A alternator if we ever do start cruising.
Take yours to an alternator shop and see what they can do. You might be surprised at how helpful and knowing and reasonably priced some of these guys can be.
I have a 100-amp alternator on my A4, had it rebuilt in Carney, MD for $95 last winter, works like a champ. And, it doesn't load down the engine, even when the entire bank of house batteries are low.
We just determined the (original) alternator on our (vintage 1967) Cal 30 is shot. Spoke to MMI, who recommended their 55 amp alternator but said mounting arrangement for it differs from the old one and that mounting the new one might be "involved". Went to alternator shop and was told Delco #8903 (61 amp) would be a good replacement for the old one, with a similar mounting arrangement (which makes it attractive); however, it has only one wire (no field wire, as with the old one) and the change in wiring makes me nervous because of that (I am not an expert). Does anyone have experience with: a) mounting the new MMI alternator to an old engine, or b) using the Delco to replace an old alternator?
We just determined the (original) alternator on our (vintage 1967) Cal 30 is shot. Spoke to MMI, who recommended their 55 amp alternator but said mounting arrangement for it differs from the old one and that mounting the new one might be "involved". Went to alternator shop and was told Delco #8903 (61 amp) would be a good replacement for the old one, with a similar mounting arrangement (which makes it attractive); however, it has only one wire (no field wire, as with the old one) and the change in wiring makes me nervous because of that (I am not an expert). Does anyone have experience with: a) mounting the new MMI alternator to an old engine, or b) using the Delco to replace an old alternator?
(I apologize if this is a duplicate post,.. am just learning the ropes on posting)
Some of the older alternators had an exciter wire, which provided the higher amperage when charging. You should be able to find an online wiring diagram for the replacement, if not check Moyer Marine's site and you will probably find the answer to your questions.
I bought this several months ago. Works great, It's also ignition protected.
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