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MG MGB Technical - V8 Alternator

Could someone please advise me on an alternative alternator for my Rover V8 conversion - I would like to fit a physically smaller unit than the standard one with a hopefully higher output. Is there an off the shelf unit with compatible mounting points, pulley size etc?
Thanks
Peter M
Peter Malkin

What alternator have you got now? Is this any smaller http://mgv8.homestead.com/electrical.html

Oh, you're in Oz, so probably want to pick one up down there rather than pay import duties. Although with the pound being worth about as much as a sweetie wrapper, buying from the UK might be the cheapest option.
Mike Howlett

I've never had a problem with the V8 alternator giving enough charge, even though it was a GT with heated rear screen, twin electric cooling fans and it was my daily driver with these, heater fan and headlights all going. Having said that modern units *do* give more output for a similar physical size, and are frequently fitted to 4-cylinder engines, see this http://www.cibolas7.net/17901.html from Bob Muenchausen. You would have to work out your own mounting arrangements of course, the pulley should probably be the same size as standard or you could over-rev it or get low output.
Paul Hunt

A good auto electrician should be able to point you in the right direction. It all depends on how you've mounted the alt. I'm using Bosch alts on my cars. one is 70 amps & the other is 80 amps. I'm not sure ,but I think the 70 amp was from a Ford Falcon & the 80 amp was originally Chrysler Valiant but has since been fitted with innards from a late model Commodore. Both of these fit onto the original MG V8 & Rover P6 mounting bracket.These were fitted over 10 years ago, I'm sure there are a lot more options today. Thats why I'd consult a pro. Also, this question should really be on the Engine conversion BBS which is crying out for inputs & might get a few more responces. Barrie E
Barrie Egerton

Thanks all for responses. I am really looking for something smaller than the original.
Barrie - will follow up on your advice.
Peter M
Peter Malkin

Nippondensos are getting real common, seem to last over 100K miles. Most newer cars have a serpentine belt, so pulleys would be a problem. But I have seen conversions on ebay for Triumph TR3's using them (about $300).

Here in the US, the cheap easy ones are Delco 10SI clones, 70 amps and up. But those are probably larger than your existing one.
Tom

You might check the British V8 web site. http://www.britishv8.org/Photos-MG-Conversions.htm

S.L. LaPaugh

This thread was discussed between 03/12/2008 and 09/12/2008

MG MGB Technical index

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