synack

I currently have a std 55Amp 817119A4 alternator on my 1997 GenVI 454 Mag and I'd like to upgrade it to a higher amp alternator. In looking at the 817119A4, I see that it's a two wire alternator. All the ones that I see as replacements are either one or three wire. Which would be the proper replacement for the 817119A4? One or three?

deboatmon

I can't comment on the specific part numbers you listed. But, I can comment on upgraded alternators and my experience with them. I have six group 30 batteries to enable extended overnighting. When we're out for 2-3 days on long weekends we use a considerable amount of available battery current. With the standard alternators a 30-60 minute cruise did not sufficiently re-charge our batteries for another night on the water. I had 130 amp alternators installed and I have a battery voltage sensing circuit built in that enables true and accurate battery voltage readings on separate banks. Charging @ 2 1/2 times the rate of stock alternators has enabled us to spend that extra night out without a "3 hour cruise" @ high RPM to juice the batteries.

Our DC performance has improved noticeably since installing the new 130 amp alternators.

synack

I believe it! I have a problem where I spend a lot of time at sand bars and at anchor in the chain of lakes just nw of chicago. The lakes are only a few miles each and then you spend like 15 mins in channels idling inbetween lakes. A five minute burst of speed and then a 15 min idle didn't do much for my batteries with the stock 55Amp unit and I had "issues". This season, I'm installing two fresh batteries, an isolator, and a new 130AMP alternator. I want the 'lectric issues behind me! ;-)

I went with the one wire, btw