Alternator Install

Hello to all,

I'm having a 170A alternator installed by a local shop. I'd like to go into this process with a little bit of knowledge and the ability to judge whether it is performing as advertised. My questions are as follows:

1) Should the shop test the alternator as part of the install (ie: idle output, voltage, etc.) or is this considered an extra service?

2) If the alternator is properly installed and free of defect, should it generally test as stated (ie: minimum output) or at a higher output? It lists idle output at 75 amps.

3) What are some red flags and things to watch for post-install?

The alternator was purchased through Alterstart and I'm aware some members here have had problems with their products. I'm hoping these issues are exceptions rather than the norm and will post as to the results. Thanks in advance to anybody who can provide some guidance.      

The installer should test it for y ou free of charge. most alternators to my experence have test +-10% of what they say.

Why are you installing the bigger alternator? Where you experencing lights dimming? power loss? what kind of system do you have?

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Eclipse 5435
US Amps Merlin MD2 x 2
US Amps Merlin MD42
Kicker Solo X 18"
MB Quart QSD216 x 2

Accoding to alterstarts history, ,i would get that baby tested before it is mounted so if its a crap hole like alot of there products, then you can atleast return it.

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2003 Chevy Avalanche,Eclipse CD7000,Morel Elate 5,Adire Extremis,Alpine PDX-4.150, 15" TC-3000, 2 Alpine PDX-1.1000, 470Amp HO Alt.

I live in Vancouver, B.C. and am not sure of any auto chain stores that will test it. I'll ask the place installing it to assess the output.

I'm installing the alternator to avoid any dimming, power loss, etc. It's in a 2001 Civic, which doesn't have the stock alternator to meet the output requirements. I'll be installing a four-channel amp for a front component set and rears; a mono-block amp to run a Brahma 15".

i believe canadian tire tests alts

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2003 Chevy Avalanche,Eclipse CD7000,Morel Elate 5,Adire Extremis,Alpine PDX-4.150, 15" TC-3000, 2 Alpine PDX-1.1000, 470Amp HO Alt.

Canadian Tire is on "The List." "The List" is comprised of companies that have utilized unscrupulous business practices and conspired to cause me emotional pain and suffering...Future Shop is also on there, which probably isn't a surprise! Bastards.

On the downside, I can't collect any Canadian Tire Money to buy quality, well-priced products...I mean crap.

LOL! yeah, but canadian tire has saved me so many times when im in a tough situation.  I would never bring my vehicle there to get worked on, , but i do bring my battery's in to be tested and such.

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2003 Chevy Avalanche,Eclipse CD7000,Morel Elate 5,Adire Extremis,Alpine PDX-4.150, 15" TC-3000, 2 Alpine PDX-1.1000, 470Amp HO Alt.

Alterstart!!!! That brings back horrible memories for me. Never, and I mean never again will I deal with those a$$holes.

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'85 Toy