MacsDodge

Have a '93 W250 getting ready to turn 100K miles, and the alternator may not make it. Looking for replacement options, and would like recommendations... I've seen Leece Neville is mentioned... Is this still the go-to choice? I'd prefer something drop-in-ish, but want to do it right once, not over again. Understand from Jim Lane's thread/post that upgrading the wires are probably a must. Anything else I'm missing? Thanks in advance. mac

texasprd

I'm sure Dodge didn't make that output wire much (if any) bigger than needed for the OE alternator - so yes, you'll probably want to go to a bigger gauge output wire if you go to a higher-output alternator. Re. the LN, another possibility is a Delco 28SI - saw an excellent write-up on "another forum" about doing that on 94-98.5 (PM me for a link if you can't find it with Google - hint: include D89 in your search words), and there is also a thread in this forum. Here's thread about how to turn off the alternator light if you go this route.

I haven't done this yet. It's something I was eyeing previously, but I'm holding off as I may sell the truck. If you do this, please let us know how it goes.

torquefan

I don't think there's an alternator made that's longer lasting than the Nippondensos that our trucks came with. I would replace it with a genuine new Nippondenso, not just a parts store Chinese reproduction. Or simply have the old one rebuilt.

texasprd

I agree that the OE Denso alternator is a good one to stay with if you don't need more amps - getting it rebuilt by a reputable local rebuilder is usually a very cost-effective way to go, if the OP can spare the vehicle for the needed down time. The Leece Neville alternators referenced by the OP are an upgrade in amperage and are considered a durability upgrade as well (the argument being that they are on Class 8 trucks that see lots of mileage - have bigger cases and bearings for better heat dissipation) - it's not quite clear what his goals are for alternator replacement. I currently run a NAPA "new" alternator (a Chinese reproduction that Torquefan mentions) and it's been in several years and has so far been reliable. It's outlasted the parts-store reman that I had to install on a trip

Mac, what do you want in your next alternator? Are you looking to stay at OE amperage? More amps? Improved durability?

honobiahunter

If I was gonna have it rebuilt then I’d have it converted to a one-wire while I was at it so if the PCM ever did take out at least the batteries draining and being left stranded wouldn’t be something to worry about

or maybe this https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/...ummins-247286/

texasprd

That's what the OP was referring to in his post. And what I mentioned the Delco 28SI as an alternative to. But neither of them is a perfect drop-in swap. It would be nice if the OP would return and elaborate on what his parameters are for the replacement

Honobia, you're idea for converting to a single-wire alternator is interesting. Have you seen that done with the OE Denso alternator?

honobiahunter

https://www.cumminsforum.com/forum/8.../topics/588251

texasprd

Interesting - thanks!