lts70

Is it normal to go through Alternators quite often on these 280zx’s. I just had to change one out last night. When my dad had the car we had to change it 3 previous times. Good thing we bought the life time warranty. Just wondering if anyone has had the same problem or if there is something that can be done to stop it from happening as often.

NismoPick

It depends on how much strain it's given. People w/ monster subwoofers usually go through alternators pretty quick.

Having said that, the stock 280zx alternators suck. Rated at 50amps? The turbo alternator is rated for 5 more amps... not enough to run electronics. The GM 1-wire is a common upgrade for the Z, and gives you the choice of 70-150amps. I use a GM 72amp alternator...

WildmaN

My alternators usually last a few years. I also have a lifetime warranty with a Duralast Auto Zone special. lol When my car is running with my stereo, and ipod hooked up. It still show 14 or a little more, when the car is running.

I was never much into big subwoofers, or pounding systems. Just asking to get your stuff jacked, or your car broken into. Besides, I listen to mostly metal for the most part. I don't need pounding bass. lol And the only thing you can see when I am not in my car. Is my empty stereo without the faceplate. And 2 6 x 9's, in the custom MSA rear panel box. I have a couple more speakers hidden in the back. And I believe they are 8 inch or so. It works for me.

Bleach

Saturn 90amp alt is an option with minimal mods. (good wrecking yard project)

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=ratsun+saturn+90+amp+alternator

The "rebuilt" ones from local auto parts stores are cheap rebuilds and often not every part is replaced internally. If you buy new from Bosch you'll have better luck. After putting Bosch on my Datsun truck (l-series) and then one in a 280ZX I never replaced them again. also, make sure your alts power wires are in good shape. Run an extra ground strap from the alt to the frame. Then replace your battery cables. Run a grounding kit from the negative to the frame, chasis, head, and block, intake manifold, and alternator. That extra grounding will help your engine's electronics as a whole.

I believe both the non-turbo and turbo come with 60amp alternators. I've heard of the turbo having a bit more amps but that could possibly be when they were new and running Nissan brand alts. Aftermarket will give you just 60amps either way.

lts70

My car is bone stock with only a cd player in place of the original stereo. That is why it has surprised me. I guess I will run this Hitachi rebuilt until it craps out and then do the upgrade.

BlueKitsune

I still have my stock alt from when the car was built on mine. I just take it off and clean the crud out of it and it works like new again then keep on going.

lts70

At least it gave me a chance to hang out with my little buddy.

evandubya

Hey, when does he get a new pair of coveralls?

lts70

Funny you ask, my wife is half way done with sewing up two pairs for each of my boys. I couldn't find any for sale online that didn't come out of Europe so she modified some one piece pajama patterns she had. They will be just like dads just with Velcro instead of zipper. I even got them matching Chevrolet patches and name patches as well.

evandubya

ha ha, cool.