AKA as: Generator

The Alternator supports your automotive charging system, a grouping of parts that harness, apply and resupply the electricity needed to operate your entire vehicle. Short burst of current—needed for cranking the engine and initial spark—and long term current supply—needed to partition out electrical power to everything from the heater f... Read More

Alternator Information

Why are Alternator Part(s) Important

AKA as: Generator

The Alternator supports your automotive charging system, a grouping of parts that harness, apply and resupply the electricity needed to operate your entire vehicle. Short burst of current—needed for cranking the engine and initial spark—and long term current supply—needed to partition out electrical power to everything from the heater fan to the stereo—both rely on the alternator.

While the battery supplies and stores electricity, it doesn’t last long without the alternator to keep it charged. The alternator runs off mechanical power to trickle electricity back to the battery—thereby maintaining flow in and out for a consistently charged battery. This mechanical power comes from the engine by way of the crank shaft. When the crank turns, it drives a belt that drives many other components- among them a pulley driven alternator.

This mechanical power is converted to electrical energy and leaves the alternator as alternating current. So while power is exerted to all the electrical components, it is simultaneously being resupplied by the engine it is powering- pretty ingenious.

When the alternator’s alternating current ceases, it’s lights out- literally. The most common clue of a alternator issue is a warning indicator coming up and your lights—headlights, dome light, etc—going dim. Of the potential issues, your alternator is the prime suspect. It is one of the workhorse-components of your car and therefore one of the common culprits in a breakdown. Luckily it is usually one of the most accessible parts under the hood and a pretty standard DIY project.

MSD Alternator Constructed of billet aluminum and CNC-machining, this alternator is for engines made to be seen. One-wire plug in for clean race engine look.

DynoMax Alternator Bracket Complete line of heavy duty U-clamps and strap bands constructed of T-304 stainless steel. Included stainless steel hardware makes this a clean looking kit.

Brands

Brands within Alternator

Auto7	Beck/Arnley	Bosch	Dorman	DynoMax
Gates	Omix-ADA	Standard	USA Industries