What Alternator To Accomodate Acc.

[Timbo126]

My alternator seems to be struggeling now with keeping the voltage up. At idle the voltage hangs out at about 13.3 - 12.9. I just ordered a set of long range 130watt lights and a set of driving lights at 100watts. Also the truck is fully loaded with seat heaters and all. I have no aftermarket stereo but I do charge a variety of accessories and tow, so trailer lights. Can I just go with the 140amp ford alternator or should I jump up to the 185 or 190 DCpower alternator.

[HAM_RADIO_MAN]

To answer your question correctly, you would have to know what your system amp draw is. Do you have access to a DC clamp meter? Having said that I don’t think you could go wrong with a larger unit.

[Raul@Stealth Automotive]

i like this one for a small upgrade: Stealth Automotive Inc - DC Power Engineering Alternators :: 190 Amp OEM High Output Alternator for 2004 -2007 Ford F-250 Super Duty 6.0L V8 Powerstroke Diesel

they go up way higher in AMP but they are more expensive as well...

[Timbo126]

No I dont have access to a DC clamp meter. I would like to just get the OEM 140 amp but I don't want to buy that and realize its not enough and that its running at its max the whole time.

[Raul@Stealth Automotive]

i had the 190 OEM DC power alt on my excursion and i very much liked it... i also had in dash touchscreen, flip down tv, amps, subwoofers, along with having many things plugged in and it never gave me a problem.....

[JasonAmericanBulldog]

i have the 190 that Raul is talking about.... I'm very happy with it

[Timbo126]

Just put in an order for the 185 from DC Power. Didnt see the need to pay the extra money for the 190.

[shiprek]

What Timvo said. I went with the 190 (actually should be delivered today) but that was just me...The 185 is several dollars cheaper and I am not sure the extra 5 amps is worth the extra money. If the extra 5 amps will make a big difference, you may want to go with a 225 amp, BUT they are really expensive.