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Alternator swap
I finally pulled the trigger on a "new" (Rebuilt) A4 and among the handful of surprises was the fact the new engine came equipped with a 35 amp Motorola alternator. I was surprised by this because it's not even offered as an option in the parts catalogue from MMI. Its been pointed out that the only way to get a 35 amp alternator is when ordering a rebuilt engine.
My existing A4 already had the 55 amp version and it didn't occur to me to specifically request the 55 amp version when I ordered the new engine. I have since spoken to the parts folks that have told me I could keep my old 55 and consider it a wash, but after reading so many of the alternator threads I have to wonder now if my new engine configuration with it's 35 amp set up to include the pulley, belt, arm, rpm, etc., will directly swap with my 55 amp.
I'm weighing the pros and cons but not sure if I'm over thinking this.
The 35 amp should be a rebuilt with the expectancy of prolonged longevity. The 55 amp however was not original equipment and had therefore been replaced at some point before I purchased the boat bringing some parity to the longevity issue. While I prefer the increased charging capacity I have already invested a lot of time, money and engineering/mechanical prowess to make too many more changes, especially after the substantial investment in a re-manufactured engine. The existing 55 amp alternator should already be equipped with the larger pulley and internal regulator but I suppose I should check to be sure.
If the pulley on my 55 amp is sized properly is my only concern a new belt size and what size should the pulley be?
My existing A4 already had the 55 amp version and it didn't occur to me to specifically request the 55 amp version when I ordered the new engine. I have since spoken to the parts folks that have told me I could keep my old 55 and consider it a wash, but after reading so many of the alternator threads I have to wonder now if my new engine configuration with it's 35 amp set up to include the pulley, belt, arm, rpm, etc., will directly swap with my 55 amp.
I'm weighing the pros and cons but not sure if I'm over thinking this.
The 35 amp should be a rebuilt with the expectancy of prolonged longevity. The 55 amp however was not original equipment and had therefore been replaced at some point before I purchased the boat bringing some parity to the longevity issue. While I prefer the increased charging capacity I have already invested a lot of time, money and engineering/mechanical prowess to make too many more changes, especially after the substantial investment in a re-manufactured engine. The existing 55 amp alternator should already be equipped with the larger pulley and internal regulator but I suppose I should check to be sure.
If the pulley on my 55 amp is sized properly is my only concern a new belt size and what size should the pulley be?
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