Ok, it seems ever since I've owned my 280ZX I've had concerns with my charging system. I always go through batteries long before the warranty expires but that's fine. I used this car daily, for the last 6 years.

I just bought a new alternator 2 months ago and it seemed to hold up close to the 14 volts with all accessories on. Before, it would drop down almost to 10v with everything on. Now, once again, my voltometer is starting to go down near 11 or 12v with my headlights, CD player, and heater fan on. This is just the usual stuff. No amps or subwoofers, no extra running lights. Why can't the charge just stay up at 14v? Do I need to get a larger amperate alternator? I've got the usual 60amp one. Is there a wire I can make, or a bad connection somewhere? Or is this problem just with my car?

 

I use a 100 Amp alternator out of a 80 200 SX on my beast. I haven't had any electrical problems. I think on the Hybrid site there is a Chev - alternator kit for killer electrical systems.

Enjoy the Ride! - Speed

 

My Z's alternator is listed as a 65amp. A 1980 200SX stock alternator (according to the parts store) is a 60amp. Do you mean that you are using a 1990 240SX alternator? I heard someone used one of those. I just replaced that on my sister-in-law's 240SX and it doesn't use a V-belt, but the bolt-up points on it look simular to my Z's alternator. Do you just have to change the pully?
240SX Alternator 89-94
I will also check my fusable links. I was thinking maybe I should run power for my headlights and CD player to a separatly fused power distribution block near the battery. Would the fresh wires maybe help the current flow better? Do you think resistance in the old fuse block is causing an unessisary amperate drain?

As for the Chevy connection, the bracket alone is about $100!

<P ID="edit"><FONT class="small"><EM>Edited by Bleachzee on 11/14/02 10:30 AM.</EM></FONT></P>

 

I don't think there is anythig pulling amperage all the time like a short. The car can set for a week with the alarm on and still start right back up. The battery holds a good charge.