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High-AMP output alternators for 280GE

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Erictsn
Posts: 71

High-AMP output alternators for 280GE

Post#1 » Mon Jun 15, 2015 11:54 pm

Do anyone know how can I find this high-amp alternators? And do you have any comments for this? I found a thread about this - http://gwagen911.blogspot.hk/2012/01/electrifying.html

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vadimivanovich
Posts: 8643

Re: High-AMP output alternators for 280GE

Post#2 » Tue Jun 16, 2015 7:03 am

Hah! That is a blog of mine that I'd nearly forgotten about.

I've been using that alternator ever since with no issues. There were 2 additions to the blog: 1. the lower mounting bolt hole needed to be drilled out to accept the thicker G pivot bolt, and 2. due to the larger exterior dimensions of this alternator, the original V-belts are difficult to install. They will go on and be fine, but you can't swing the alternator in enough to allow the belt to be removed as freely.

As the blog states, 380,420,500,560 MB engines used it. Here's one: http://www.ebay.com/itm/MERCEDES-BOSCH-ALTERNATOR-560SEL-1986-1987-1988-1989-/380304762149?fits=Model%3A380SL&hash=item588bee2525&vxp=mtr
"The way you think is the way you live"

Erictsn
Posts: 71

Re: High-AMP output alternators for 280GE

Post#3 » Tue Jun 16, 2015 7:42 pm

Thanks. You are the die-hard fan of G-wagon!
Is it worth to do this? What is the side effect? because I plan to use the audio and some device which needs more amp, so I plan to do this.
Appreciate for any comment/ advise.

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vadimivanovich
Posts: 8643

Re: High-AMP output alternators for 280GE

Post#4 » Tue Jun 16, 2015 9:32 pm

If you have a diesel, then you don't need the 80A or higher alternator. If you use a winch regularly, then okay, maybe you need it. If you are using the stereo, A/C, lights, and fan at the same time, even the 55A alternator should handle this. A gasoline engine puts more load on the system - about 2-10A depending on speed and # cylinders.

I used my 80A alternator with a refrigerator, headlights, fan, and various USB devices all day for 9 days in Death Valley. It was more than enough in my diesel.

Is it worth it? If you need to replace your alternator, this is an easy upgrade. Do you need it? I can't say, but usually no. A refrigerator could take a lot of power, depending on the model... so try to add up all of your power usage and reduce the alternator maximum load to 70% of it's rated power (or less).

Good luck with it!
"The way you think is the way you live"

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nihil
Posts: 1798

Re: High-AMP output alternators for 280GE

Post#5 » Wed Jun 17, 2015 12:47 am

vadimivanovich wrote:Hah! That is a blog of mine that I'd nearly forgotten about.


Are you still liking the 6TL battery? I had planned on a pair of Odyssey batteries when I upgrade the alt, but I like the single unit/keep it simple approach.
1982 300GD LWB RHD

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vadimivanovich
Posts: 8643

Re: High-AMP output alternators for 280GE

Post#6 » Wed Jun 17, 2015 6:54 am

The 6TL (other cross reference: 6TMF ) is absolutely awesome. After leaving the current gobbling 80-quart fridge on all night I could start right up as if nothing happened. No winch, so I can't vouch for that perspective, but I'm definitely convinced that this was the right way to go.

For the record, I didn't make any permanent alterations to install it. I fabricated a new box sized to fit the battery plus an oil & stuff compartment to the side. The box was bolted directly on top of the original tray, which makes the battery sit 3/4" higher but it still clears the hood fine.
"The way you think is the way you live"

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nihil
Posts: 1798

Re: High-AMP output alternators for 280GE

Post#7 » Wed Jun 17, 2015 12:16 pm

Looks like Odyssey makes a 6TL drop-in replacement. A 1200CCA/1500CA beast of a battery at that. Pricing in the $500-$600 range though, ouch. Not that a pair of standard automotive Odyssey batteries and an isolator wouldn't cost the same or more.

http://www.harrisbattery.com/products/b ... l-pc2250st
1982 300GD LWB RHD

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nihil
Posts: 1798

Re: High-AMP output alternators for 280GE

Post#8 » Wed Jun 17, 2015 12:39 pm

I just went out and measured my battery tray, roughly 12x12x9 inches. According to Odyssey the PC2250/6TL is 11.26x10.59x9.17, so it should drop right in nice and cozy. Though I think I'd add a sheet of rubber between the terminals and hood just in case. Somewhat like using floor mats between the battery and back seat on all my air cooled VW's. I only needed to learn that lesson once. :D

Being that 6TL is a standard size (other makes showing 10-1/2 x 11-7/8 x 9), and you mention fitment modifications, I wonder if I have an oversize battery tray already.
1982 300GD LWB RHD

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vadimivanovich
Posts: 8643

Re: High-AMP output alternators for 280GE

Post#9 » Wed Jun 17, 2015 2:56 pm

Ha ha... it's under the seat in an Isetta :)
"The way you think is the way you live"

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Crank
Posts: 919

Re: High-AMP output alternators for 280GE

Post#10 » Tue Apr 03, 2018 7:05 pm

Old thread, I know.

Would like to upgrade my ‘84 280GE’s alternator to a higher-output version.

Any ideas on where to buy a good one? Newly refurb’ed is fine, or clean/used.
-Crank

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