Tuff Stuff FAQ

  1. Alternators
    1. How do I hook up a one wire alternator?
    2. When to use a one wire alternator?
    3. Is it true that one wire alternators don’t charge at idle?
    4. Does chrome plating on a alternator retain heat?
    5. What is the largest amp alternator I can install in my vehicle?
    6. Do I need to buy a reverse rotation alternator for a serpentine system?
    7. How do I know if my alternator is charging?
  2. Starters
    1. Why does my starter make a whining or grinding noise?
    2. Why does the full size starter use the “R” terminal and the gear reduction does not?
    3. Why won’t my starter crank when it’s hot?
    4. Why do I keep cracking noses on my full size starters?
  3. Power Steering Pumps
    1. Is the PSI the same in all pumps?
    2. What is the difference between keyed shaft power steering pumps and press on power steering pumps?
    3. What kind of fluid should I use in my power steering pump reservoir?
    4. What is the difference between a metric pump and a SAE pump?
    5. How do I mount the power steering pump when the bracketry is missing from my engine?
  4. Water Pumps
    1. I installed a new water pump in my car but it’s still running hot.
    2. How do I know when I need a reverse rotation water pump?
    3. Why should I install an aluminum water pump?
    4. How do you measure the height of a water pump?
  5. Power Booster/Master Cylinder
    1. What is the difference between a single and a dual diaphragm booster?
    2. Do I need a bracket to install the brake booster to the firewall?
    3. Will I have to do any modifications when installing a universal brake booster?
    4. Do I need a proportioning valve if I am converting over to power brakes?
    5. What if my engine has a radical cam?
    6. Do I need a 1” bore or a 1-1/8” bore master cylinder?
    7. Why would I need a dual ported master cylinder?
  6. FAQ
  7. Privacy Policy
    1. Communications
    2. Brochure Mailing List
    3. Communications to Serve You
    4. Fraud Protection and Compliance with Law
    5. Service Providers
    6. Special Events
    7. Business Transfers
    8. Cookies, IP Addresses, Pixel Tags and Tracking Technology
    9. Use of Aggregate Information
    10. Links
    11. Security
    12. Notification of Policy Changes
    13. Updating Personal Information
    14. Contacting Us

Alternators

Q: How do I hook up a one wire alternator?

Run a wire from the battery terminal on the alternator to the positive terminal on the battery. You may also consider running the wire to the starter solenoid (main lug). Your battery cable is connected to this lug. This may hide the charge wire for a cleaner look.

Q: When to use a one wire alternator?

One wire alternators will simplify your build up. If you are starting a project from scratch, then there is no longer a need for the messy wiring harness from an externally mounted fender wall regulator In many instances you can remove your existing external regulator and harness and replace it with a one wire. One wire alternators can be purchased for GM, Ford and Mopar applications. Please note: If your vehicle was originally equipped with a dash indicator lamp in some GM applications it will be necessary to remove the black rubber regulator cover and plug in your existing two spade plug. This procedure can be performed when installing our models 7127, 7139 and 7140.

Q: Is it true that one wire alternators don’t charge at idle?

Tuff Stuff’s 40 years of experience have enabled us to develop alternator internal components that will keep your battery charged at a crawl. No other manufacturer in the industry has been able to produce more amps at low RPM’s than us. There is no need to worry about the use of underdrive pulley systems or ignition regulator turn on with the use of a Tuff Stuff one wire alternator.

Q: Does chrome plating on a alternator retain heat?

We have tested our alternators through the most rigorous conditions and there is no proven fact that we have been able to produce, that will support this rumor.

Q: What is the largest amp alternator I can install in my vehicle?

The sky is the limit. The more amperage the better. As long as the alternator can fit into your brackets, you can put any size alternator on your vehicle. The voltage regulator will control the amount of amperage that the battery needs to run your accessories. Please Note: It is imperative that you increase the size of your charge wire if you are upgrading to a higher amp alternator. Insufficient wire gauge size can cause fire due to heat created by resistance.

Q: Do I need to buy a reverse rotation alternator for a serpentine system?

No. Tuff Stuff alternators are bi-directional and will work properly if installed on the left or right side of the engine or with serpentine or “V” groove pulley systems.

Q: How do I know if my alternator is charging?

If you have access to a multi meter, (can be bought for $10.00) turn the dial to DCV. Hold the black probe on the negative battery terminal and the red probe on the right. With the vehicle’s engine running, the battery voltage should read between 13.5 and 14 volts. Battery voltage without the engine running should read 12.6 volts.


Starters

Q: Why does my starter make a whining or grinding noise?

This could mean that your starter needs shimming. There are different methods of shimming a starter, depending on which direction the starter needs to be adjusted. If the starter to ring gear tolerance is too tight, you will need to shim the starter away from the ring gear. If the tolerance is loose, your ring gear may be worn or defective. Our industry has become familiar with brand new defective aftermarket flywheels. Don’t rule this out as a possible cause. If the model #6584 or #6772 pinion is engaging in too far, the washer shim may need to be installed behind the mounting block. Refer to installation instructions (supplied with your new starter) for tolerances.

Q: Why does the full size starter use the “R” terminal and the gear reduction does not?

The “R” terminal sends 12V to the coil when a ballast resistor is part of your ignition system. In most cases the “R” terminal connection can be discarded. The gear reduction starter motor draws half the amperage of the full size starter, therefore it’s not robbing the engine’s spark. You may also want to consider upgrading to a modern ignition system that does not consist of a ballast resistor.

Q: Why won’t my starter crank when it’s hot?

This is common with full size starters. Excessive heat against the starter solenoid builds resistance in the coil .There are a few solutions for this problem. (1) You can install our Model #7629 hot start kit. (2) Install a heat shield on the solenoid. (3) Replace your full size starter with a gear reduction. The smaller body and variable clocking provides more clearance between the exhaust and the starter solenoid.

Q: Why do I keep cracking noses on my full size starters?

Refer to the first paragraph in this section. (whining and grinding noise) These can all be factors. If you are not installing the starter with original equipment bolts the starter will become loose causing misalignment. Install with Tuff Stuff #7623 knurled starter bolts. Backfire while starting causes backlash which creates sudden excessive impact to the aluminum casting. If your engine is not tuned properly do not continue to crank your engine until your timing is set. The Hitachi style gear reduction starters have a solid mounting block and pinion that will withstand backfire better than the full size starter. Full size starters are not recommended for high compression engines.


Power Steering Pumps

Q: Is the PSI the same in all pumps?

No, at Tuff Stuff we currently carry pumps that are valved at 1200-PSI and at 850-PSI. Most applications will accept the 1200-PSI pump, with exception of the Mustang II rack, which uses an 850 PSI valve. 850 PSI valves are sold separately or you can buy a Tuff Stuff #6174A or 6174B Saginaw style pump that is factory set to 850 PSI.

Q: What is the difference between keyed shaft power steering pumps and press on power steering pumps?

Most early vehicle pumps came with a keyed pulley which was nut retained. Most late vehicles were revised to a press fit pulley. The nut retained style pulley can be easily removed and reinstalled. Once the press fit pulley is installed, it is not recommended to remove it and reinstall it because the pulley I.D. becomes stretched and it may slide off the shaft. Car builders prefer the universal keyway fit #6176A because of its flexibility.

Q: What kind of fluid should I use in my power steering pump reservoir?

Use a high quality, brand name Power Steering Fluid that can be purchased at your local auto parts store.

Q: What is the difference between a metric pump and a SAE pump?

There are two differences between these pumps. The SAE pumps use a flared fitting for the pressure line and the mounting bolts are Standard American Equipment. The metric pumps use an O-ring.

Q: How do I mount the power steering pump when the bracketry is missing from my engine?

Tuff Stuff has a wide variety of power steering pump mounting bracket kits for both the Saginaw and Type II pumps. The brackets are laser cut from ¼” steel plate and are available in either chrome plated or a variety of powder coated colors and are complete with fasteners.


Water Pumps

Q: I installed a new water pump in my car but it’s still running hot.

Engines that have been modified for more horsepower generally run hotter than stock engines. SuperCool water pumps are designed to provide 30% more flow. If combined with the proper thermostat and radiator, your engines overheating can be resolved.

Q: How do I know when I need a reverse rotation water pump?

If you are ordering a water pump by application, you will be certain that the water pump will be an exact replacement for your vehicle. In this case you need not worry about whether it is a reverse flow. If you are building an engine or upgrading from a “V” belt pulley to serpentine, you need to assess your situation. Most serpentine systems require a reverse water pump. You can determine this by how the belt travels around the water pump pulley. If the back of the serpentine belt travels around the water pump pulley you will require a reverse water pump. If the inside of the belt travels on the water pump pulley you will require a standard rotation water pump. Most pulley and bracket manufacturers can tell you what style of water pump you need for their system.

Q: Why should I install an aluminum water pump?

Some water pumps are available as aluminum rather than cast iron. Aluminum pumps are much lighter than cast iron and can be polished to a high luster without rusting.

Q: How do you measure the height of a water pump?

Measure from the top fan hub surface to the water pump mounting surface The industry term for measuring a water pump height is the “hub height”. The hub height is a critical belt alignment dimension determining where the water pump pulley belt groove(s) fall in relation to your crank, alternator, power steering pump and air conditioning pulley grooves. The dimension from the mounting gasket surface to the outside face of the hub (where the pulley is bolted) is the hub height. It is especially helpful to know what the hub height dimension is to determine if your Chevy water pump is a long or a short style. A long or short water pump may be used on any Chevy V8 (Gen I SB - Gen II BB) engine as long as the correct pulleys are used and the belts are in alignment. In the catalog “water pump” section you will find the hub height next to each model. Never attempt to press or pull the hub to change its dimension. This may result in an unbalanced fan blade that can explode the pump causing serious injury!


Power Booster/Master Cylinder

Q: What is the difference between a single and a dual diaphragm booster?

Dual diaphragm booster provide more power assist to the brakes.

Q: Do I need a bracket to install the brake booster to the firewall?

Your original booster may have had a bracket already attached to it. If you wish to install one of our universal boosters (#2221, #2222, #2223, #2224, #2231), then you may need to install a bracket (#4650, #4651, #4652) to most closely match your original booster setup or needs.

Q: Will I have to do any modifications when installing a universal brake booster?

There is always a chance that you will have to make some modifications when installing a universal brake booster. Normally the pedal rod length will have to be adjusted and that is why purchasing a pedal rod extension kit (Tuff Stuff #4750) is always a wise choice.

Q: Do I need a proportioning valve if I am converting over to power brakes?

Yes, when converting to power brakes you must use a proportioning valve (#2301, #2302, #2303). They come complete with bracket and the lines from the master cylinder to the proportioning valve.

Q: What if my engine has a radical cam?

In this case you will have to check that you are producing at least 18” of vacuum. Your system may require a vacuum assist pump if your vacuum is inadequate, causing a hard pedal.

Q: Do I need a 1” bore or a 1-1/8” bore master cylinder?

It all depends on the brakes you are running. If you are using a factory disc/disc application then you would use a 1-1/8” bore master cylinder, but if they are aftermarket calipers you would use a 1” bore master cylinder. Aftermarket calipers are bigger than original equipment and require more pressure to open. In most cases with disc/drum applications on earlier models you would use a 1” bore master cylinder. There are always exceptions when building a street rod. Tuff Stuff technicians can guide you through the process of ordering the proper brake booster and master cylinder to complete your project.

Q: Why would I need a dual ported master cylinder?

We build our dual ported master cylinder so you can redirect your brake lines from the opposite side of the master cylinder. The ports on the other side of the master cylinder are then plugged.


Privacy Policy

Q: Communications

If you select during the order process or at other times when you submit personally identifiable information, the information you provide may be used by Tuff Stuff to create and deliver to you our newsletters, surveys or other communications containing product information. If you prefer not to receive such Communications, please do not select the ‘Please inform me option’. If you do select this option and later decide that you would no longer like to receive these communications, please use the features made available to you.

Q: Brochure Mailing List

If you have requested a Tuff Stuff brochure, all information is kept completely confidential and is not shared with any third parties. We may, on occasion, send you an updated catalog or brochure. If you do not wish to receive any mail from Tuff Stuff , please contact us via email at . Include your name and mailing address and email address. You will be removed from any future mailings.

Q: Communications to Serve You

If you have elected to provide us with your contact information, e.g., by registering at the Site, emailing our Customer Service department or placing an order, we may provide you with service related announcements concerning the Site or contact you regarding your customer service requests or your order. For example, all registered users will receive an email to confirm their order. These types of communications are necessary to serve you, respond to your concerns and to provide the high level of customer service that Tuff Stuff offers its customers.

Disclosure of Personally Identifiable Information

We will never provide your personally identifiable information to third parties for their use in marketing their products or services to you without your consent. Tuff Stuff takes great pride in having you as a customer and we will ensure your privacy as a customer. Tuff Stuff does not sell or exchange names or any other information about our customers with third parties.

Q: Fraud Protection and Compliance with Law

We may disclose any information, including personally identifiable information, we deem necessary, in our sole discretion, to comply with any applicable law, regulation, legal process or governmental request. We may also exchange information, including personally identifiable information, with other companies and organizations for credit fraud protection and risk reduction.

Q: Service Providers

We may retain other companies and individuals to perform functions consistent with our Privacy Policy on our behalf. Examples include customer support specialists, web hosting companies, fulfillment companies (e.g., companies that fill product orders or coordinate mailings), data analysis firms and email service providers. Such third parties may be provided with access to personally identifiable information needed to perform their functions, but may not use such information for any other purpose.

Q: Special Events

If you elect to participate in any promotions, sweepstakes, surveys, questionnaires or other events during your visit to our Site, the rules or terms and conditions for those events may indicate that your personally identifiable information will be shared with third parties. By choosing to participate and submitting your personally identifiable information with respect to such events, you consent to disclosure of your personally identifiable information to such third parties.

Q: Business Transfers

As we continue to develop our business, we might sell certain of our assets. In such transactions, user information, including personally identifiable information, generally is one of the transferred business assets, and by submitting your personal information on the Site you agree that your data may be transferred to such parties in these circumstances.

Q: Cookies, IP Addresses, Pixel Tags and Tracking Technology

We may place a "cookie" on your computer's hard drive so we can recognize you as a return user and personalize your experience. A cookie is a piece of data that enables us to track and target your preferences. The cookie will be stored on your computer's hard drive until you remove it. We may also use temporary or "session" cookies to help you shop. These cookies will expire when you place an order. You can have your browser notify you of, or automatically reject, cookies. If you reject our cookies, you may still use the Site, but you may be limited in the use of some of the features. In addition, we may use IP addresses to analyze trends, administer the Site, track traffic patterns, and gather demographic information for aggregate use, as well as in combination with your personally identifiable information for credit fraud protection and risk reduction.

Similarly, when you visit this Site or view one of our emails, we may use pixel tags (also called "clear" gifs), tracking links and/or similar technology to note some of the pages you visit on our Site and personalize your experience. We may also use pixel tags to determine what types of email your browser supports. We may use the information collected through pixel tags, tracking links and similar technology in combination with your personally identifiable information.

www.tuffstuffperformance.com does recognize your ISP (internet service provider), however, we cannot identify you as an individual. If you make an on-line purchase we do collect information (such as sales statistics and traffic patterns) to help improve your shopping experience. We keep all information confidential.

Q: Use of Aggregate Information

We may use the information you provide in aggregate (non-personally identifiable) form for internal business purposes, such as generating statistics and developing marketing plans. We may collect, store or accumulate certain non-personally identifiable information concerning your use of the Site, such as information regarding which of our pages are most popular. We may share or transfer non-personally identifiable information with or to our affiliates, licensees and partners.

Q: Links

This Privacy Policy applies only to the information collected on this Site. Our Site may contain links to or from other websites and you should be aware that we are not responsible for the privacy practices of other websites. We encourage you to read the privacy policies of other websites linked to the Site.

Q: Security

Tuff Stuff seeks to protect the security of your personal information both online and offline. All credit card transactions are secure. Every on-line order is encrypted and sent through a secure server, using SSL technology to prevent information from being intercepted.

Confidential information such as your credit card number will be used only to fulfill your order. To protect your privacy, we will ask you to enter your credit card number and expiration date each time you place an order with us. This way, even if someone else accesses the account information stored on your computer, they won't be able to use your credit card.

E-mail is not encrypted and is not a secure means to transmit credit card numbers. We will only display the last 4 digits of your credit card number on your account.

Q: Notification of Policy Changes

Tuff Stuff reserves the right to revise this Privacy Policy in the future by posting changes at this location and we may make changes at any time without notification.

Q: Updating Personal Information

If you are a registered member at Tuff Stuff , you can change your personal information at any time by updating your information at check-out.

Q: Contacting Us

We welcome your comments and questions about privacy. Please send email to info@tuffstuffperformance.com.

We are confident that your visit to Tuff Stuff is secure and safe. However, you may choose to call us directly to place your order over the telephone. Please call Customer Service toll free at 800-331-6562.