Are there any cons to getting a Higher Output Alternator?

Question

i wanted to get one to help run my subwoofers, but my dad says that it will burn out my light bulbs faster. I dont really know enough to say they dont so i wanted to check if anything will go wrong if i install one

I drive a:
1999 Honda Accord EX

Answer 1

Every alternator has a voltage regulator (it regulates the output). So how is the alternator going to burn out your light bulbs faster? Get the bigger alternator. It will put out more charging power to the battery and will NOT drag your other pulleys, contrary to some peoples belief. Make sure you have good solid grounds on your amp and stereo unit too.

Answer 2

Don't worry about the lights, as long as the replacement alternator has the same voltage set point they will be fine.



Your only issue will be if you have the 4 cylinder engine as it spins backwards from almost every other engine, including the v6 option in that car. This means that the alternator's rotor spins counter-clockwise from the pulley end when most spin clockwise. The cooling fan on the rotor won't work properly spun the wrong way so the alternator may overheat if driven to full output for more than a few seconds at a time.

Answer 3

Hhave you determined the extra unused output of you current alternator? There is ususally quite a few watts of reserve capacity available - you should be able to find those stats online somewhere - specifically to drive auxillary optons (either installed on your car or available on the higher model cars).



Honda probably uses one alternator for most of the vehicles it produces in a year - the lowest model will have the same alternator as the highest model so there is more reserver capacity to run 'uninstalled'options on the lower model vehicles and it could be substantial reserve.

Answer 4

I wouldn't get any man those will slow your car down. No offense but Hondas are ricers. They're still nice, Hell I have one, but my point is that one your dad might have a point. Two, they're expensive, and that it's just a Honda. Might as well start saving for something faster. Keep your car clean trust me.

Answer 5

but my dad says that it will burn out my light bulbs faster.

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How does he figure? The alternator will only put out what the engine computer tells it to...

Answer 6

The unit cost more and it may use a little bit more gas to turn the bigger armature.