Ho Alternator

[Michels]

I am thinking about upgrading the electical system. I want to add a ho alternator. Does anyone know one that will work at a good price (can not find one designed for the car), and if there are any pitfalls that could come with this addition. With the added power I plan to add a 1500w, 120v outlet and a subwoofer. I plan to use the space around the spare tire that is currently occupied by foam. I am also thinking about putting a spare battery that I can run these systems on independent of the car when it is off.

 

[thedaddyb]

It might be a while before a bolt on one is available since these cars/motors are still pretty new. There are always options out there; depending on your budget.

Some shops can re-wind the alternator to produce more amperage. Changing out the pulley is also an option.

You can always get a universal alternator and have a shop fab up the brackets so it can be properly attached to the motor.

As far as pitfalls, generally you will loose some hp/tq from the parasitic losses at the crank.

Might want to look into doing the "big 3" upgrade as well. I actually would recommend this for pretty much anybody. It's pretty amazing what some better grounding will do to a modern vehicle assembled with pinch welds and adhesive.

 

[Bob-Loblaw]

Might want to look into doing the "big 3" upgrade as well.

What's that?

 

[thedaddyb]

What's that?

Upgrading the power and ground connections in the vehicle. (usually with 8 awg wire or larger)

1. Fused wire direct from the alternator output to battery positive terminal.
2. Ground from battery direct to chassis
3. Ground from chassis direct to engine block

Often times you can make numerous ground points to different spots in the engine bay for improved results.

It's surprising how well this improves the electrical components in the car. If you have ever experienced dimming lights from an upgraded stereo system, this will usually fix the problem. (assuming you still aren't drawing more current than your alternator can output)

 

[fdew]

Ebay says the Mazda CX-5. 6, and 3 all use the same alternator. There are HDs for the 6 on the web.

BTW. I have added biger wire to other cars. It stops dimming lights and makes the alternator last longer because it isn't making power that is dropped in the wiring.