Alternator upgrade

Submitted by Rod Hafneer-

The 55 amp alternator in my ’73 was on it’s last legs, and I wanted to replace it with something a bit more powerful, to accommodate an 8000 lb. Electric winch, auxiliary heater, lights, etc.
I contacted the folks at Bronco Parts Inc. in Sacramento CA, who recommended a 90 – 100 amp unit from a 1970’s vintage Lincoln Continental. Along with the greater output, this alternator has a larger frame than the stock Bronco unit, which- makes for a longer life through better cooling.
The price for a 1973 Continental alternator at my local NAPA store was around $140, with the core charge. The only modifications necessary were a couple of terminal ends to mate my old harness to the new alternator. I used only the field (FLD), battery (BATT), and ground (GRD) terminals. I was told the stator (STA) terminal is a 6-volt tap for an electric choke, which I don’t have.
Mechanically, it bolted right up – didn’t need to change anything. The new alternator has a smaller pulley, and puts the lower alternator bracket at a different angle. Because of this, I would recommend a shorter belt. My new stock belt worked OK, but there is almost no adjustment travel left for when it stretches.
I might replace the battery wire with a heavier gauge, it seemed to get a little warm when re-spooling my winch cable, but otherwise, everything seems to be working great.

Rod Hafner-

Rod's 73.