I was wondering what you guys use for a different alternator, like an upgrade when outfitting your 1st gen with a biggy stereo. I am thinking 800watts +, and definitely want more charging juice. Any ideas, or is it trial and error? Also, what can i use to clean off oxidization from under the hood and on the wheels - eg. EGI cover... any solvents??

 

I'm assuming you have a GSL-SE since you talk about EGI cover.

You can sand down the cover (400-800 grit) and then polish it, if you want.

As far as the alternator question goes, it depends on how many AMPS of current your system will draw on load. Not how many watts it produces... A GSL-SE alternator puts out about 45amps.

 

got grab a t2 alternator 88 ones are 80amps and the 89+ are 90 amps and require not much modification to do it. if you want a 800+ watt stereo invest in some capacitors. that way when you hit some low bass it wont kill your alternator. i went through 3 in a summer last year.

 

i have around 1200 watts in my 83. i got a 87 alt and it wires right up, if you get it frim a junk yard you need to get the little spacer thats on the long bolt. its thinner than the stock 1 and makes this a EAZY swap.

 

Get a second gen alternator. It is a direct (almost) bolt in. BUT you need to upgrade your fusible links! The fusible links are on the driver's side on the engine compartment. You need to replace these with a newer fuse block. You can get this from a second gen, or 626, or any newer mazda. There are three wires into the fusible link module, Wire the main into the 80 amp spot on the new fuse block, and wire the other side direct to the battery. The other two wires are for the headlights and retractors, wire them to any of the 30 amp connections. This will leave you with two (i think) more connections a 30 and a 40 amp. You can use these for add on accessories like fog lamps etc. This is a great cheap upgrade. It solved all of my problems.
hope this helps,
hanman