What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

I currently run an internally regulated 3 wire and need to upgrade to a high output of atleast 140 amp and wonder if there is an advantage of switching to a one wire set up.

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

I can't see any benifit except for the install. Once that is done they both will be the same. I have the internal 3 wire alternator and can't see anyway it could be any better.;):chevy:

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

most of the time the one wire will cost more , but its easier to wire up, the internal reg. three wire mounts the same and is also an internal reg , all you will have to do is wire up an exciter wire to kick it in every time you start it so it will charge...and most of the time they are cheaper .

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

i heard the 1 wire hookup does not charge good during idle. I think i needs an increase in rpm to excite the alternator to start charging. could be wrong tho. I would keep the 3 wire myself.

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

I've had the same chrome one wire alternator for at least 16 years if that means anything for you :metal:. I think it's a 120 amp.

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

My 3 wire is right at 24 years old. I installed it back when I put the TPI in the truck March 1989.;):chevy:

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

Nice article about the disadvantages of a 1 wire alt.

Lots of other interesting info also on this site!!!

http://www.madelectrical.com/electri...hreewire.shtml

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

I also have read a lot of pros and cons and it basically comes down to ease of installation. I have one in my farm tractor since it doesn't idle very much. When I first crank it up, I have to over-rev it in order to get the alt kick started. Most of the time it's working hard when it's running so I don't have problems with it. In a car or truck, the problem I see is the idling time when in heavy traffic or a traffic jam.

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

If you just want more amps, why not call local alternator shop and see what they would charge to rewrap it to get a higher amperage. If they can't just buy the one that fit's your brackets that has the most amps.
These are just what I googled, haven't used any of them.;):chevy:


http://www.nationsautoelectric.com/highoutput.html

http://www.nationsautoelectric.com/highoutput.html

http://www.summitracing.com/search/p...mp-alternators

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

Sometimes a one wire won`t start charging until it sees some RPM, so you have to tap the gas to "excite" it to get it to charge. I prefer a 3 wire so the charge light will work. it can give you an early warning of a problem.

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

The local shop wanted to sell me a later model alternator. They claim it has a bigger case and they need to see the truck to make sure it will fit the brackets. They also claim that the aftermarket units are not what they claim to be. It sounds like a line of BS if you ask me. I am running a 96 amp and I am looking to go to 140 or more. I am not wanting to spend $350 bucks on one although I will if that is what I need.

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

Here is a chart I ran across for interchange that might help http://www.qualitypowerauto.com/page...lternators.php

Re: What are advantages of 1 wire alt vs 3 wire?
 

Well that would be a concern I guess. I would drive up there and let them show me the ones that fit and then go to the parts house of your choice to see if they can beat there price. On line also who knows you may even find a factory one on e-bay.;):chevy: