A Lexus dealer parts department told me the alternator is different for California 1993 LS400's. I know there are some differences in emissions components but I was suprised to hear the alternator is different. Has anyone else heard of this, if so what is the difference ?

i can ask my lexus mechanic 2morrow

That's a pretty stupid statement to be made by the dealer. The alternator shouldn't have any effect on emissions at all, because it's part of the electrical system on the car. Who knows though, CA is one of the most restrictive states when it comes to cars.

I stand corrected \/\/...but still, the one I put was Autozone purchased , and didnt see a difference between the two in front of me at the time.

I thought it was stupid as well but decided to check .
http://shop.lexuspartstore.com/buy.p...1&make_code=LX

Remanufactured 100 Amp Excluding Calif
100 Amp California only

and again
http://lexuspartsonline.com/index2.h...&siteid=214281

who would have thought ! Does anyone know what the difference is ?

Looks like a pretty good parts source, has anyone had experience with them ?

Same out put i would guess it is a different pulley so it does not create much strain on the engine on idle or different regulator for the same idle issue where the engine would run rich to compensate for the amperage at idle.

Anything hooked up to the engine, electrical or mechanical, can have an effect on emissions.

You're right. I didnt think about the engine strain at idle as SK said. But even then the emission difference would be so small.