Upgrading an Alternator

Capt Fred · Feb 13, 2020

Lepke, Thanks for your input.

Capt Ralph · Feb 13, 2020

Lepke said: ↑

I run CS-144s on my Detroits and one generator. I use 2 B belts because I couldn't find the serpentine pulleys needed. The alternators do put out 140 amps stock. And I have one I converted to 48 volts for the inverter bank. I use CS-144s because they were easy to find and dirt cheap when I switched over.
Click to expand...

How much larger is the frame/case over the 10/12SI? I think that was the OPs topic before I contributed to some side tracks.

Lepke · Feb 15, 2020

The CS-144 is about a 1/2" bigger in diameter and maybe 1/2" longer not counting pulleys or fan in either. My 12v ones run off a dual pulley from one of the back accessory spots. The 48v runs off the front on a custom mount. The 12v ones use the original mounts for the 10si, just leaned over a little more.

Capt Fred · Feb 16, 2020

Well I bit the bullet and installed a CS144 on my DD. The fit is tight but I got her in place. On the stbd engine I had to rotate the housing 180 degrees to get the battery bolt on the inboard side. Just did a quick test and it puts out over 14 volts at idle. So far I'm pleased. Thanks for all the help.

Capt Ralph · Feb 16, 2020

So, How much larger of a case is it? Did you have to mod the tension gizmo??
Cant leave us hanging?
Did you shop for a 21SI vs the CS144? What prices issues did you find?
Dual belts? Same size? Able to match easily?
AND You didn't send any pictures. Ya know, I like to watch..

Capt Fred · Feb 17, 2020

The foot to ear dimension is 1/2" wider, the adjustment tensioner bolt is 3/8 verses 5/16 and the case diameter is about 1/2 wider. It is probably about a 1/2 longer as Lepke mentioned but I did not measure that. I did not have to mod the tensioner or foot. Both the 12SI and CS144 are about the same price on Amazon, I paid $109 with free shipping but the CS144 is 140 vs 100 amps for the 12si. Also no core charge. I got the CS144 connector with resistor from eBay for 10 bucks. For now went with single belt will monitor. I'm pleased with the performance based on a one time dock test, time will tell. Will grab a picture next time on the boat.

Capt Ralph · Feb 17, 2020

Good report. Now go catch some fish and have fun.

Capt Fred · Mar 10, 2020

CR, as requested a few pictures of the CS144 installation.

Capt Ralph · Mar 10, 2020

Mighty Fine.

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Upgrading an Alternator

Capt Fred Senior Member

Capt Ralph Senior Member

Lepke Member

Capt Fred Senior Member

Capt Ralph Senior Member

Capt Fred Senior Member

Capt Ralph Senior Member

Capt Fred Senior Member

Attached Files:

alt bk rs.jpg

alt front rs.jpg

Capt Ralph Senior Member