stronger alternator

[milPT]

Has anyone had to get an alternator that provides more power then the stock one? Just out of curiousity because I have my own sound system that I run a lot at parties and get togethers along with undercarage lights. I plan on adding more things that will use the electric and wondering if its best to get another battery or a better alternator?

[quicksilverdon]

Sounds like battery should come first if you're planning on using sound system at parties (car off). Just a thought - maybe throw a long extension cord (100' or so) and battery charger in the car, and plug in your PT.

[JaxPT]

If you're looking for running a system with the car off what ya need to invest in a a battery isolator and another battery, a deep cycle, most people go with Optima Yellow Tops. one battery is just for primary functions, starting etc. and the deep cycle is for powering the system without draining your main battery.

[ElectricBlueGT]

JaxPT,

A better choice is a battery isolating solenoid contact switch. The solenoid is ignition triggered to be closed when the car is on to allow the batteries to be charged from the alternator. The solenoid is open when the car is off. The system and aftermarket accessories can be run off the second battery. If the second battery "dies", the car can still be started from the main battery. A diode battery isolator has a voltage drop of 1 to 2 volts. This voltage drop only strains that alternator even more. A good solenoid contact switch has a voltage drop of 0.01 volts.

Scott

[milPT]

thanks for the advice, any idea of general cost?

[ElectricBlueGT]

milPT,

The solenoid switch should be ~$100. 4 gauge wire ~$2.00 per foot. Battery: depends on who you buy from...Optima Yellow Top (deep cycle) is a good choice.

A deep cycle battery is good for repeated fully-charged to dead battery cycles. A normal car battery is good for 2 dead battery scenarios, then it will never act the same...(per AutoSound 2000 tech article ~ 10 years ago)

Scott