sjc2467

I was told that a GM CS-144 alternator may be a good choice as an upgrade for our stock alternators (it's a pretty common mod on 4runners, I think).. Has anyone else heard of this or done it? The CS-144 is pretty big, but if it fits, it would be a decent upgrade (reliable, 140 amps stock, and lots of aftermarket "high output" options). Obviously a wiring adapter would be needed, but does anyone know if it will fit and bolt on (perhaps with a spacer or something)? Is a custom bracket necessary?
If the 144 won't fit due to size, perhaps a CS-130 would fit, but they're less reliable and not very powerful unless you get an "upgraded" one. They may be more common than our alternators (easier/cheaper for high-output versions), but I don't think it would be a wise upgrade due to reliability issues (poor cooling means they cook to death at stock output... high output is likely even worse).

SCereal

iTrader: (4)

Sequoia or tundra alts fit with a little rewiring and shaving of the mounting ear. Few threads on here about it.

blk&blu*j

iTrader: (1)

I use a 14v 240amp GM based alternator (obviously not stock) but it works and does bolt up. My wiring is vastly different than 99% of anybody reading this so I wont speak of that.

sjc2467

It bolts up with no custom brackets? What model is it? Stock belt size or different? Wiring is not an issue (for me at least) and it's only 3 wires (plus the upgraded output wire, which is a good idea with any alternator upgrade).

I'm looking for a modest upgrade, and my main concern is performance at idle, which is the main reason I'm interested in the CS-144 (supposedly it puts out roughly 100 amps at idle). 140 amps total is more than enough for my needs (and, in fact, I'd rather not go much higher than that because if the battery ever runs down much, charging it that fast is not good for it). I would also like to use an alternator in stock form, if I can find one with sufficient output, due to reliability concerns with modified alternators (the only 2 times I've ever been stranded with a car were due to alternator failures, and even though I keep tools with me on longer trips, you can't replace an alternator if it's night and the parts stores are all closed).

I'm not opposed to making custom brackets, if absolutely necessary, but I'm guessing the CS-144 (if it fits) will probably require an adjustable bracket and different belt size, and if there is a bolt on option, that might be a better route.

I have a spare cs-130 laying around somewhere (my Saturn ate alternators so fast I started carrying a spare), so maybe if I get some free time I'll see how it fits (much smaller, but has the same mounting points as some of the CS-144s).

mecheng10

in for results!