Where can I get a more powerful alternator for my 04 z? thanks.

 

I just got one put in. Call Mark @ SGP Racing 281-444-9195. Tell him Todd told you to call him about a high output alt.

 

How much did it run you, how many amps and how hard was the install. Im running 2 jl amps a 450/4 and a 500/1 so alot of real power.

 

Try upgrading your power and ground cables first to 0gauge wire first before you spend money on a new alt. You'd be surprised of the difference it makes. A new alternator is gonna run you a couple hundred whereas bigger wiring will run you less than 100 bucks and you'll definitely see results.

 

You shouldnt need a bigger alt from just those. I was running a 1000/1 and a 300/4 with no problems.

 

How would going from 2 gauge to 0 gauge help me?

I was suprised at this as well. But I can easily cause the battery charge indicator to go crazy along with my headlights to go crazy. If a bigger alternator will cure this thatd be great, if not I guess Ill just live with it.

 

There may be something else wrong. Maybe your factory alternator is about to kick the bucket. Those 2 amps should not be causing the problems you described on a healthy charging system......a little headlight dim maybe, but def not a whacky volt meter needle.

You can contact these guys and see if they have one or can make one.....they sell HO Alt's for the Xterra & Frontier:
http://www.mean-green.com/products/alternator.html

 

your not running that much power

 

a 2nd battery would cure for less than an alt

 

Im guessing my alternator is about to go out as it is. This problem hasnt always been there, its just gotten worse over time. Im not about to put a second battery in, I've already added too much weight as it is. Im just gonna get a better alternator and if that doesnt solve it, I'll try the above mentioned.

 

I have problems with my voltage meter hopping around also. I only have 1 460x1 kicker amp, but it doesnt even have to be running for my car to stutter. Ill make a stop push in the clutch and sometimes my car will stutter and the volts will drop down like the car died, then it jumps back up. Brand new battery, so i was also thinking i may be having problems with the Altenator. Hopefully my extended warranty will cover it, im going to get it tested afterwork today.

 

A second battery only enables you play your stereo longer when the car's turned off. It will also place an additonal load on your already strapped alternator.

What problems are you experiencing?

 

really

 

get a capacitor if you are experiencing dimming lights...that's all...

 

http://www.caraudio.com/forum/showthread.php?t=152355

 

Capacitors are nothing more than Band Aids. Find the problem and fix it right, don't do a cheap temp fix

 

Thats what I've always seen and observed as well. Everytime my subs hit every light dims by engine revs a little bit more and the voltage gauge goes flippen crazy. Keep in mind this is only when I have them cracked to like 52 or so. Im thinking im gonna get a new alternator, is that pretty much the conclusion? I wish 16psi or nazar would post.

 

Agree 100%. Makes everything more efficient and stable. Def do this first. You will find that you don't need a HO alt.

 

Im not about to take apart my entire z again, i've done that once before and dont plan to do it again. Ive run over 1100 on 4 gauge with 0 problems. Im not gonna run another wire unless I do something major.

 

I agree 100% that capacitors are nothing more than band aids for a problem. I have always said that (even in a few posts in this forum somewhere).

Correct me if I'm wrong Hustler904 and Jokestrap, but I think they mean to do "the big 3" power and ground upgrade under the hood. This does not require taking apart your interior again. Doing "the big 3" (the link above describes the process) basically beefs up the main electrical wiring of your car's electrical system. It can work wonders to a system with minor dimming.

If you can, take your car to any mechanic (even like a Sears auto shop) and have them test your alternator. As discussed above, maybe your alternator is about to give up the fight.