Do I need to upgrade my alternator?

[dgaf 10+ year member]

I just got a 1997 F150, and want to put put something in it.

[currently running one 12" apline type r, on a orion 300 @ 1ohm]

Simple question, but can't find my answer anywhere online. Basically, how big can I go before I have to upgrade my alternator?

Can I run a 2000w (@ 1 ohm) amp with one sub without upgrading my alt? Can I put in a second battery, and keep the same\factory alternator?

I would like to go as big as possible, without upgrading the alternator.

Thanks

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[09civic 5,000+ posts]

big 3 done?

 

[sexy 10+ year member]

I just got a 1997 F150, and want to put put something in it.[currently running one 12" apline type r, on a orion 300 @ 1ohm]

Simple question, but can't find my answer anywhere online. Basically, how big can I go before I have to upgrade my alternator?

Can I run a 2000w (@ 1 ohm) amp with one sub without upgrading my alt? Can I put in a second battery, and keep the same\factory alternator?

I would like to go as big as possible, without upgrading the alternator.

Thanks

There are sites that give estimates on your question but they are just that estimates. There will be other factors like heater and he headlights wire size ect ect. Your year ford should have a 135 amp alternator. Running an efficient 2000 watt amp without headlights and or heater you would be ok with what you have as long as you do the big three. If you were using one of the more inefficient 2000 watt amps you would be cutting it close but still ought to be good. Adding an extra battery wont help if you are pulling more than your alternator can make.

 

[DustinT 10+ year member]

The battery will be of somewhat limited value. If you take Sexy's post just above mine and go with that you'll be in good shape. If you tend to run your system really loud for only short periods of time, say less than 5 - 10 minutes than a second battery will help a fair bit. Anything more than that and you'll have to closely monitor your voltages and if you see drops when you run the system as loud and as long as you want too than you'll need to upgrade your alternator. Honestly, its money well spent.

Also, you might want to pop your truck on a charger if you park it for a while, especially after a night of playing it loud. That will really help your batteries stay properly charged and living as long of a life as possible. Even a 10 or maybe 15 amp multi start, smart charger will be plenty to keep your truck fully charged.

 

[S.B.C. 10+ year member]

Gotta have power to make power.

 

Alt plus a few batts is the best way to go.

 

Your only going to be able to beat on it full tilt for maybe 20-30 sec before those batts are drained.

 

[bubbagumper6 5,000+ posts]

Definitely not. You will either A. Damage the amplifier from low voltage or B. Damage the alternator from the strain. Do it properly from the beginning or you'll have no end of trouble. If you don't want to have to upgrade your alt I wouldn't go much past 1000-1200w.

 

[dgaf 10+ year member]

thanks for the help guys.

i guess i'm in the market for a new alternator now.