GM Alternator on Samurai

[alternator]

I need help with that. I got a GM alternator for a 84 Blazer, tried to fit it on my Samurai, but it was too big, it was bumping against the engine mount. What model is usually used, and how is it fitted? I want an alternator that gives at least 80 Amperes.

[ack]

The 10SI and 12SI are the most commonly used GM alternators on Samurais.

I have a 15SI and it's almost too big to fit!

Here is the ultimate GM Alternator thread:

GM alternator install - Zukikrawlers

...and a few others just for the heck of it:

Roadless Gear - Offroad Parts & Accessories
(figmo sells a complete kit or you can DIY with a GM alternator bracket)

and

Which GM Alternator Application

All the above links were found using the search string GM alt at Ack's FAQ! See my signature for a link to Ack's FAQ...

I hiopew this helps!

[alternator]

Originally Posted by ack

The 10SI and 12SI are the most commonly used GM alternators on Samurais.

I have a 15SI and it's almost too big to fit!

Here is the ultimate GM Alternator thread:

GM alternator install - Zukikrawlers

...and a few others just for the heck of it:

Roadless Gear - Offroad Parts & Accessories
(figmo sells a complete kit or you can DIY with a GM alternator bracket)

and

Which GM Alternator Application

All the above links were found using the search string GM alt at Ack's FAQ! See my signature for a link to Ack's FAQ...

I hiopew this helps!

Thanks Ack, you're a great help.

[Merlin93]

The CS130 series is a good fit and often used in more recent GM alternator conversions. They are (mostly) 105A rated, and more compact than most of the older generation alternators. They also have an internal fan plus the external. The CS130D has two internal fans, but is really a different animal (mechanically); I could not find one to fit. Cooling, or the lack if it, is the primary reason alternators fail -- none are really made to provide full output continuously.

There's a lot of information around, so spend some time researching. There's more GM alternator info at: MadElectrical
although they only discuss the older 10SI and 12Si series. A lot of Zukers make these work and they're cheap at the junkyard.

I got mine as a kit from Paul at Adventure-Off-Road on eBay, and I'm pleased with both the product and service. Some of the usual Suzuki/Samurai vendors, e.g. TrailTough, sell a bracket for the GM alternator.

A word of caution, however. Some write-ups advocate removing the fusible link. In my view, this is an exceptionally bad idea. The OEM fusible link protects the vehicle wiring from an electrical fire. Adding a high-output alternator will eventually blow the fusible link unless you run a new, separate alternator-to-battery charging wire (6ga or larger) directly to the battery (+) terminal, so that the high battery charging current bypasses the fusible link (just tape off the old output wire and don't use it). You can replace the fusible link with a fuse if you must (a 40A MAXI fuse seems about right to me), but doing without any circuit protection at all is asking for trouble. One electrical fire could ruin your whole day.

[alternator]

If I can know exact vehicle applications of the suitable alternators, it would be really helpful.

[Billjohn]

Originally Posted by alternator

If I can know exact vehicle applications of the suitable alternators, it would be really helpful.

Mine is off a 1996 Cadillac Eldorado...

[ack]

Originally Posted by Billjohn

Mine is off a 1996 Cadillac Eldorado...

I think mine came out of an mid-seventies Chevrolet 1/2 ton pick-up truck.

The SI's are found in LOTSs of different GM vehicles from the mid- or early-90s back. It's an "eyeball' kind of search - look for the tin - can shape of the alternator in the donor car and start wrenching. If you find one (pics are in the first thread in my first post), note the model and year (copy down the vehicle's VIN and do a VIN search). This information allows you to use the salvaged alternator as a core (save money!) for a new one if the salvaged unit turns out to be a dud.

I hope that htis helps!

[alternator]

In our reagion we don't get all GM vehicles. Mid seventies pickup is what I tested with, and it was way too big. Bill's Caddie is not available in our region. But I read the Camaro has it, and we get that here, but quite rare. Is there any stamp or writing on the alternator that shows what SI is it?

The most common old chevy's we have are Caprice, Blazers and Suburbans. We also get some Pontiacs (Roadmaster), some old caddies like 94 STS, etc.

[Mope]

I think mine is off an 86 camaro with AC.

[alternator]

I'll try to go to the scrap yard this weekend and scavenge for the alternator.