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?

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.