C-1 Alternator Conv. Joe/Jack Brain Trust...

[Dennis C.]

OK. GM serpentine belt conversion. Included GM info indicates this system based on the early TPI systems of the early '90's. Suggests reference '91/'92 Camero or Firebird Service Manuals for more detailed info.

Cut to the chase: Alternator: CS 130 series, PN 10463172, AC Delco PN 321-464, 105 amp reman unit.

Has one big +Bat lug which I think I understand. Then I get confused. There is a 4 wire plug in to the alternator. All white wire insulation. One wire is bigger than the other 3 which are all the same small size (maybe 18/20 gauge). So, may I assume this baby needs a VR, and if so, part #? And, if so, how do I hook it up with 4 wires all having the same color conductor?

I did check my 92 454 SS. It has the major batt lug and a big plug-in going into the alt, but only one wire is going in and it is quite small.

HELP... Thanks, Dennis

[Joe L.]

Re: C-1 Alternator Conv. Joe/Jack Brain Trust...

Dennis-----

One thing that you can be absolutely sure of: the GM #10463172 alternator has an INTERNAL voltage regulator. As a matter of fact, the 4 terminal connector that you see is connected directly to the voltage regulator. NO external regulator is required or used for any application I know of.

If you note the terminals on the alternator-mounted connector, they should be labeled "S", "L", "I", and "P". GENERALLY, the "S" terminal is connected to battery and fused only by a fusible ink in the wire. The battery voltage may be picked up at several points, but the starter solenoid is a common source.

The "L" terminal usually connects to the vehicle voltmeter, driver information center, or warning light;

I believe that the "I" terminal connects to the ignition switch through the main fuse block. It is "hot" or energized with battery voltage when the ignition switch is in the "run" position.

I don't think that the "P" is used for most applications. When it is used, I don't know what it's used for.

By the way, the GM #10463172 is the SERVICE alternator for 91-92 Camaros and Firebirds with V-8 engines. So, that's probably why they suggest using the service manuals for those cars for reference.

Also, on a seperate but related issue, you are aware that if you convert an engine which was originally equipped with a "V" belt-type pulley system to a serpentine belt system you usually need a reverse rotation waterpump. Otherwise, the pump will be driven "backward"?

[Mike E.]

Re: C-1 Alternator Conv. Joe/Jack Brain Trust...

Dennis does lot's of things backwards--shouldn't cause him any kind of a problem!!!!!!!
Mike Ernst

[Mike M.]

Re: C-1 Alternator Conv. Joe/Jack Brain Trust...

you get an A+ and a hundred bucks in the collection plate for that hit on the dipstick, rev. mikie

[Dennis C.]

Joe - Thanks much. For Dummies like me...

...the GM serpentine conversion includes the reverse rotation water pump, along with A/C compressor, alternator, power steering pump and every bracket, pulley, nut and bolt you need. Not a bad deal for about $700. Was also reminded I need to acquire a reverse rotation fan...

And, as usual, the 2 "Mike" comment offerings were more than helpful in my time of distress and need... Thanks all

[mike cobine]

Re: Joe - Thanks much. For Dummies like me...

If it were me ...

I'd do the parts car route. Lots of dead, wrecked, etc. V8 Chevy vehicles you can pick up cheap. Almost all have the AC, water pump, fan, belts, brackets, etc.

And for a lot less than the $700. An engineered kit means someone else gathered the parts and is charging you bigtime for it.

But when I was done, I'd have a spare small block, transmission, parts car, etc to sell and probably get my full price back. Odds are, the conversion would be free or even profitable.

[Dennis C.]

Make that 3 helpful "Mike" comments... *NM*

[Dick W.]

"Dipstick"

Stevie Wonder could see you are confused Dipstick

[Dennis C.]

Somehow, if I buy a brand new engine,...

...a newly rebuilt automatic transmission, a new distributor, a new starter, a new torque convertor, a new carburetor, etc., it just does not fit my style to install (1) a water pump, (2)a power steering pump, (3)an A/C compressor, (4) an alternator and (5) a belt (and idler pulley bearings) that probably have 100,000 miles on each component.

May as well use the accompaning 100K engine, transmission, etc., and keep every part on an even keel.

[mike cobine]

Re: Somehow, if I buy a brand new engine,...

My mistake, I was unaware you were installing a newly rebuilt automatic transmission, a new distributor, a new starter, a new torque convertor, a new carburetor, etc., and thought you were just asking about installing a serpentine system on an existing 100K engine, transmission, etc. in a C1.

$700 is a heck of a deal since a new A/C compressor is $550, a new water pump is $190, a new power steering pump is $370, and a Delco-remanufactured alternator is $150-$200.

[Dennis C.]

Thanks Mike... I didn't make it clear...

...this was a "like new" effort. Based on the prices you quote, it really does make the kit sound like a bargain. The aftermarket kits I looked at ranged in price up to $2500+ !!! Of course chrome, billet pulleys, polished aluminum, etc take their toll on the pocket book. But hey, I don't need no stinking chrome...

[mike cobine]

Re: Thanks Mike... I didn't make it clear...

I grabbed the prices out of an Eckler's catalog so there is some markup there. But overall, the $700 price for new stuff is a good deal.

[John M.]

Re: Thanks Mike... I didn't make it clear...

Dennis,
That price does sound good! I learned my lesson on the 59, and on my 65 project, I am not going to be spending all that money on an aftermarket chrome drive setup. The LS2 that I am putting in the 65 will use all original GM drive components, a lot less expensive! The chrome drive setup on the 59 does look good, but it is just that much more stuff to clean and polish.


Regards, John McGraw

[Dennis C.]

John - Whoa !!! Looking Good... *NM*

[Joe L.]

Re: Somehow, if I buy a brand new engine,...

Dennis-----

I totally agree.