Hey guys, I've checked a handful of alternator threads and posts. But just wanted to see if what option would be best in this situation.

I have an 85 GS, 12a. It has the stock original 55amp Alt (at least it looks like it). PO had a 4 speaker Kenwood setup, and Pioneer heatunit installed everything else is regular in terms of electronics.
I read up on the 86-88 70amp Alt "plug and play" upgrade. I can grab one on ebay for $105 right now. There is also a dealer on ebay who sells a high output FB alternator of 130amps.

Which would you think is the best bet to get, for the following: Current 4 speaker Kenwood setup, and Pioneer heatunit (not sure the wattage), a single or dual Durale electric fan set up, and possibly some Halo headlights with DLRs (that might be set up on a independent 4way toggle switch, as my stalk headlight switch for low beams works when it wants , and the always brights never work, however flash to pass works always)

Would the 70amp S4 alt be sufficent for this set up? If I go with the 130 amp do I need to route bigger gauge wires around, I want to avoid as much electrical work as possible, its not my jam)

Thanks in advance!

 

check this out: https://www.jegs.com/tech-articles/h...XyZ48xvwJmj0VX

it has an amperage calculator at the end of it.

as far as that 130 amp unit goes, i would see if i could get some feedback from customers because over the years i've heard (and to a lesser extent, have seen) that those "upgraded" alternators are hit and miss. so just proceed with caution.

that said, my feeling is that the Gen 2 unit could be adequate for you if the higher power unit does not pan out for whatever reason.

 

Got it, that was super helpful. After going through that calculator to get a base line, then adding additional amps for a buffer. Im going to go for the S4 70amp, as that should give me some headroom. Especially if I can set up the headlights on a separate relay to take strain off the alt. Suggested by t_g_farell

 

just read this thread and thought of you, so check this out: https://www.rx7club.com/1st-gen-gene.../#post12621790

the reason i thought of you is in particular, Post #3 (@raven12aFB) it may be the same place you mentioned earlier.

that said, if the S4 alternator will satisfy your needs, then it could be a safer bet.

 

That’s the exact 130amp I was talking about. Just asked him about it too! Thanks for looking out, appreciate it