do i need to upgrade my alternator?

Printed From: the12volt.com
Forum Name: Car Audio
Forum Discription: Car Stereos, Amplifiers, Crossovers, Processors, Speakers, Subwoofers, etc.
URL: https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=49396
Printed Date: October 31, 2025 at 3:07 PM

Topic: do i need to upgrade my alternator?

Posted By: ippy98
Subject: do i need to upgrade my alternator?
Date Posted: February 05, 2005 at 9:51 AM

what is the average power that a car alternator can handle?
I have an 05 focus and will only be running about 650W RMS (50W rms x 4 and 250W rms x 1). Should I really worry about upgrading my alternator or do I need to do anything at all?

Replies:

Posted By: skoldspuppy
Date Posted: February 05, 2005 at 10:27 AM

Most New car alternators handle between 60-80 amps depending on the car, the best thing is install it see if you have any problems first, then start with adding beefier ground wires "AKA the big 3" a Deep cycle battery and then finally an alternator.

I didnt have to up my alternator from the stock 80 amp, after I put a 100 amp draw to the system all I did was the big 3 with 2 guage wire and add a deep cycle and the alternator works fine

Hope it helps

Skold

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Posted By: pimpincavy
Date Posted: February 05, 2005 at 11:04 PM

You probably wont need a alt. I am running equipment of similar wattage in my 88 Crown Vic, which has a original alt. which is probably smaller then your car. Most new cars have a lot of electrical stuff, andon many the headlights come on as the car is starting. That is a big draw on the battery, so they have a big alt. to charge the battery quickly after that.

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Posted By: jeffchilcott
Date Posted: February 06, 2005 at 1:00 AM

you will be fine I really doubt you lights will even dim at all

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Posted By: wheelerdr
Date Posted: February 07, 2005 at 9:03 AM

i would call ford and ask their tech dept. to see what amp that alt is

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