Best Alternator Swap for a Durasparked 2.8

[ford4wd08]

Been a minute folks but back looking for a little advice.

To the best of my knowledge, I am running the original 41-year-old alternator in my BII. I believe it is the 2G that leaves a lot to be inspired, and the plug on the back of the alternator can cause issues from what I've been told.

Anyone have any tips or threads for an easy swap to better system? Can be a one wire, etc. Just would like to use the existing belt and mounting brackets for the 2.8.

Most of the upgrades I see being discussed on here for later engines that have a different mounting for serpentine belt set ups.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I used one I think it was for a 2.9. Fit the same and used a V-belt but had an internal regulator.

I didn't pick it out for any set reason, the truck had already been upgraded to it when I got it and I just stayed with it. It seemed to work well.

 

[ford4wd08]

I used one I think it was for a 2.9. Fit the same and used a V-belt but had an internal regulator.

I didn't pick it out for any set reason, the truck had already been upgraded to it when I got it and I just stayed with it. It seemed to work well.

I'll poke around on rock auto and see what I find.

I don't have a lot of high electrical demands. The whole thing is still basically stock.

I did find this recommendation on a thread I forgot I had commented on earlier this year.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008NF7QLA?tag=959media-20

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Yeah, the 2.9 alternator isn't anything too hot. Maybe a tad more than a 2.8 but nothing really special that way.

Be aware, the wiring system in your truck isn't really rated for much more than what your stock alternator made. I melted a connector on the DS inner fender for the wire that IIRC goes to the battery and it bricked my truck. No power to anything.



That was with a 135A Explorer alternator.

 

[ford4wd08]

Yeah, the 2.9 alternator isn't anything too hot. Maybe a tad more than a 2.8 but nothing really special that way.

Be aware, the wiring system in your truck isn't really rated for much more than what your stock alternator made. I melted a connector on the DS inner fender for the wire that IIRC goes to the battery and it bricked my truck. No power to anything.



That was with a 135A Explorer alternator.

Understood.

I really wouldn't mind a stockish replacement. I would prefer an internal regulated upgrade though.

 

[mr_manny]

I would recommend going with a ford 3G alternator.
Easy install, available locally and much more amps then original.

Lots of info on this upgrade here on TRS.