#493219 - 10/16/07 02:00 AM
CS144 Alternator Conversion
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 555
jac1599
Member
|
Member

Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 555
Bartlesville, OK
|
CS144 Alternator Conversion___________________________________________________________________ Tired of 85 to 95 AMPs of power? Well this simple swap will get you 140 AMPs of juice to power most everything any regular driver will need. With my aftermarket CD player (no subs), headlights, A/C, and wipers going, I am still hitting over 12.5 volts. With my old SI alternator I was lucky to hit 12.5 with nothing on! ___________________________________________________________________ SuppliesCS144 Alternator - you can get these from any parts store if you ask for an alternator for any of the following: (1994-96) Buick Roadmaster 5.7L (1993-96) Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham (RWD) 5.7L (1993-96) Chevrolet Caprice 4.3L, 5.7L (1995-96) Chevrolet Impala 5.7L (1992-95) Chevrolet Lumina APV Van 3.8L (1992-95) Oldsmobile Silhouette 3.8L (1992-95) Pontiac Trans Sport 3.8L AC Delco part 10463338. Picture - CS144 alternator:  Wiring harness/adapter - if you have a parts store that knows anything you should be able to go in and ask for an "SI to CS conversion harness" otherwise just go to the dealer and ask for: Delco 8078/GM 12102921 if you have a volt gauge or Delco 8077/GM 12083462 if you have an "idiot" light. Picture - Wiring harnes (8078) (note the resistors in the wires)  Optional: Alternator bracket kit - I've read many reports about the CS alternator not fitting properly so that the user is not able to tighten the brackets all the way. In my install I was able to install everything perfectly with no fit problems at all. You can go chrome universal (Spectre or Mr. Gasket) Picture - my stock bracket:  Picture - Chrome bracket:  _________________________________________________________________ Directions1. Unhook negative battery cable. 2. Loosen alternator and remove belt. 3. Remove alternator. 4. Change alternator pulleys if necessary (use an impact wrench) 5. If you are using the stock brackets, the arm on the lower bracket will not bolt on to the alternator. That is OK. The lower bracket is used just to support the weight of the alternator. Simply loosely attach the top of the alternator so you don't have to hold it up. Next put the lower bracket in between the block and alternator, slip the long bolt through and tighten into the original hole on the block. Pictures - lower bracket:   6. Loop belt around all necessary pulleys and back around alternator pulley. TIP: Use the best belt you can find. When I first did this swap, I used a 5 dollar belt. Every time my alternator kicked in my belt would squeak for a few seconds. I went back and got a Gates belt (23 bucks) and no more squeaks. 7. This is easiest if you have two people. The CS style alternators are meant to be in cars that have serpentine belt systems so the top hole is not threaded like the stock alternator. You will need a big bolt and a big nut (I don't know what size specifically is needed, I just found something in my garage). Next pull back on the alternator and have your buddy tighten the nut/bolt with two wrenches. 8. Plug in wiring harness and reconnect the tickle/trigger wire. Picture - Wiring harness:  9. Reconnect battery wires. Picture - Final install: 
Last edited by 85_SS; 01/28/08 10:52 PM.
1987 SS, 355 TPI and a work in progress
|
|
|
#653332 - 02/26/09 04:24 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: jac1599]
|
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,384
Atl_Monte
Member
|
Member
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,384
Atlanta, GA
|
What if I have the plug from the donor car and want to merge the harnesses what do I do for resistors? And which of the two small wires do I use?
1988 Monte Carlo SS fully customizedm, cowl hood, Kandy paint w/ ghost flames, power sunroof, 24" rims 327 SB - SOLD 1986 Monte Carlo SS 350 create motor, cowl hood, shaved handles & trunk, power sun roof, digital dash http://youtu.be/aKZI0FhUP6U1984 H/O Cutlass lightning rods 8.5" rear LT1 and C5 brake conversion under way 24" rims
|
|
|
#678232 - 04/29/09 04:55 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: novaderrik]
|
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 1,151
WaSSted
10+ Year
|
10+ Year
Member
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 1,151
Kennewick
|
I may have to look into getting a different upper bracket.
My stock 1986 bracket works, HOWEVER I did not like how it fit.
I started installing the alternator by bolting it on with the bottom bolt and bracket (left loose).
I then installed the upper bracket and left the bolts finger tight. Next I tried rotating the alternator into position and no go... It hits the bracket.
I tried removing the bolt that holds the alternator bracket into the intake manifold. That helped but I didn't like only having two bolts holding the alternator in place. I then tried prying up on the upper bracket to make it fit, the move I moved it up the more the bracket moved forward. So I said heck with it and ran a bolt through and tightened it up. Well it didn't looks straight. So I ended up using the lower bolt as a guide for keeping the alternator straight and in place while I fooled around with the upper bracket. End result was three washers between the upper alternator bolt and the upper bracket. Now if anyone looks under my hood they probably will never know the difference. But it bugs me that I had to use three washers to keep the alternator straight. I will be on the look out for a new set of brackets.
All in all it's still a great upgrade.
Kirk Herres 86' SC/SS, 350 Vortec, Rpm intake & Cam, 750cfm Edlebrock Carb, 3" True Duals w/Flowmasters and DR. Gas X pipe, All Autometer Gauges, B&M Hammer Shifter, Accel wires & ign., and 3.73 Posi.
|
|
|
#678722 - 04/30/09 10:40 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: WaSSted]
|
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 14,862
Gruvin
Moderator 15+ Year
|
Moderator 15+ Year
Member

Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 14,862
Texas
|
Down at the bottom of the link below, you will find a wiring diagram for the ALT, you only need to add a 50 ohm 5 watt resistor to the L wire. This is a 25 cent resistor!! and the the adapters are like $20.00 plus $8-9.00 shipping now... HTHs http://www.gilbertautoparts.com/ChevySmallBlockV8s/385turnkeyparts.cfm
Last edited by Gruvin84SS; 05/06/09 11:44 AM.
My first SS! Sold Jan 2004 ![[Linked Image]](http://www.MonteCarloSS.com/images/Gruvin_84SS_sig.jpg) 87 SS bought 9-5-04: Sold 6-18-2010 - project 87 finds a new home with another undisclosed MonteCarloSS.com member!
|
|
|
#706958 - 07/25/09 08:45 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: AndreB]
|
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 983
BladeOfAnduril27
15+ Year
|
15+ Year
Member
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 983
Doylestown, PA
|
I just finished doing this upgrade this afternoon. Here are some things that I found as I went through that are not listed in the original post, but may be helpful to those considering this...
First, a question I had a while ago, you don't have to upgrade your battery cables to do this.
Seconds, it is possible to use the stock alternator bracket, however the spacer on the long bolt that goes between the alternator and the block is bolted to the stock alternator. You will have to unbolt it. It will not bolt to the CS style alternator, so just slip it over the long bolt. Also note that the upper bracket will have to be unbolted from the intake manifold. The CS alternator is larger that the SI, and you can't use the stock upper without unbolting it from the manifold. It may be possible to modify the bracket so that you can keep it bolted to the manifold, but I didn't bother trying and I'm satisfied with the tightness of the new alternator using the upper bracket without the manifold bolt.
Third, on the CS alternator I used (this may or may not be true of all CS alternators, I don't have access to another one to check), the stud on the back that you bolt the battery wire on to is larger than the one on the original SI alternator. Since the terminals are O ring contacts, I modified them by cutting the "O" with a pair of dikes and gently spreading the contacts open, into more of a "U" until they fit over the stud. I'm sure you could just replace the contacts with larger ones, but I didn't happen to have any on hand.
Overall this was an easy upgrade, and I completed it in about an hour and a half. I spent most of the time tightening the belt so that it wouldn't squeal under load.
I checked my battery with a multimeter when I finished, and it read 13v at idle, so I turned on the headlights, high beams, rear defrost, and AC on high. It only dropped to 12v (would drop to about 8.5v with the old alternator), and when I revved the engine in was right back to 13v. No more flickering headlights when the turn signal is on!!
~ Matt H.
1988 Monte Carlo SS w/ T-tops, White with gray int, 350, Summit cam, World Torquer S/R heads, Holley St. Dominator intake, Edelbrock 600cfm carb, Champion 3-row alum radiator, ramchargers, 200-r4 with CK Shift Kit, billet servo, 2200 stall, Afterburner headers, Pypes 2.5" with x-pipe, Violator mufflers (stock exit), S10 front brake swap.
|
|
|
#707350 - 07/27/09 01:29 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: BladeOfAnduril27]
|
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 6,890
Z65_Paul
Administrator 20+ Year
|
Administrator 20+ Year
Member

Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 6,890
McDade, TX
|
Here's a bit more technical electrical information for the CS style alternators. The 4 pin plug has connections marked S, F, L and P. NOTE: If your alternator as an 'I' in place of the 'L' connection, see the paragraph below. S = Sense F = Failure (Indicator) L = Lamp P = Pulse The 'S' connection connects to a remote voltage sense location. This wire connects to the larger gauge wire that was on the stock SI alternator connector (Not the thick battery wire that connects to the rear of the alternator). As it sounds, the alternator uses this connection to sense the remote voltage to determine if it's sagging (more current required), or not (less current required). The 'F' connection is the failure indicator and is not used for our setup. It normally would go to a alternator failure indicator in some setups (as opposed to an alternator lamp). The 'L' connection is the lamp connection. The 'lamp' refers to the typical idiot light for an alternator. This connection requires switched (ignition) voltage through between 35 and 350 ohms of resistance. If the alternator sees below 35 ohms of resistance, the CS alternator will fail eventually. For the 4th Gen Monte Carlo SS, the thin brown wire that normally went to the stock SI alternator is switched voltage, but the resistance is too small. I measured mine at 15 ohms to ground. Since this is less than the 35 ohm minimum requirement for the CS alternator, you need to add a resistor in series with this brown wire, to the 'L' lamp connection. I chose a 40 ohm 5 watt resistor. As long as you keep the total resistance between 35 and 350 ohms, you should be ok. If in doubt, measure the resistance of your brown wire to ground with ignition off to determine your car's baseline resistance. The 'P' connection is not used in our application. It's a pulsed output that connects to a tachometer in some applications. For alternators that have an 'I' connection in place of the 'L' connection, the wiring requirements are a bit different. See this link for more information. Depending on the exact model of alternator you purchase, the rear battery connection may not be convenient, or come too close to other engine components. In this case, you can remove the three bolts holding the alternator together to re-clock the rear. Because of the bosses on the altnerator, you will have to separate the two halves. Be forwarned that doing so will cause the alternator brushes and springs to pop out. Putting them back is simple by using a straightened out paperclip, inserted into the whole at the rear of the alternator which allows the brushes to be held in place while the alternator is apart. Once you have the alternator properly clocked, and the three bolts retorqued, simply remove the paperclip from the hole to release the brushes. This information should apply to all CS style alternators, whether installed in the stock location on the passenger side of the engine, or on the driver's side of the engine in a serpentine belt setup.
|
|
|
#713811 - 08/14/09 09:52 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: Z65_Paul]
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 186
Yellowcarloss
Member
|
Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 186
Jackson, MS
|
The plug that i have only have wires coming out of the F and L hole. So without the adapter will both wires be connect to the brown wire from the harness with the resistor on the L wire?
Chevy 385 430hp 457tq, vortec heads,9.8 comp., ran by stock computer and no emission, Monster built 700r4, Powertrain build 10 bolt (stock looking).
|
|
|
#723274 - 09/13/09 02:39 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 84supersport]
|
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,694
Minotaur15
15+ Year
|
15+ Year
Member
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,694
Manahawkin NJ
|
The serpentine and v-belt pulleys should be interchangeable. I just received a new aftermarket CS unit and the dummies sent it with a v-belt when it was spec'd for a serp. The aftermarket units are available with both. I'm pretty sure all OEM units were put on cars after v-belts were totally phased out.
Dan - minotaur15@hotmail.com Used to have: '86 MMC Road Course Ready 2020 Kia Forte GT Manual - Daily Driver
|
|
|
#733646 - 10/23/09 02:36 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: tuff57]
|
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,694
Minotaur15
15+ Year
|
15+ Year
Member
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,694
Manahawkin NJ
|
The conversion should be the same in every respect!
Dan - minotaur15@hotmail.com Used to have: '86 MMC Road Course Ready 2020 Kia Forte GT Manual - Daily Driver
|
|
|
#743944 - 11/26/09 05:31 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 87aeroNAPTOWN]
|
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,694
Minotaur15
15+ Year
|
15+ Year
Member
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,694
Manahawkin NJ
|
http://paceperformance.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=8710Beware of the Tuff Stuff alternators if you want it in a timely fashion. Pace thinks they are high quality, but they are basically custom built and it took me at least five weeks to get mine, and another week to get the correct pulley! Other than the delays, it seems like a nice unit...
Dan - minotaur15@hotmail.com Used to have: '86 MMC Road Course Ready 2020 Kia Forte GT Manual - Daily Driver
|
|
|
#743986 - 11/26/09 09:10 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: Minotaur15]
|
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,479
87ChooChoo
10+ Year
|
10+ Year
Member

Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,479
las Vegas, NV
|
I got mine at Autozone. Should be able tyo get them at Checker, O'reileys, Rockauto, etc. Look up any of the cars listed in the first post of this topic. Got mine for a pontiac transport.
85 El Camino Choo Choo with L31 350 Crate, TPI, Serp, TES Headers, GN 200-4r, 3.73 8.5 GN Posi, Acura Buckets, '04 GP Console, Electric Mirrors, Electronic HVAC, ZQ8 wheels, Blazer front brakes, LS1 rear brakes, and more.... https://sites.google.com/site/darbyselky/home
|
|
|
#744722 - 11/30/09 04:17 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 87ChooChoo]
|
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,221
FinallySS
10+ Year
|
10+ Year
Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,221
Nice Sunny Hawaii
|
I did the swap on mine and it's great! But one question.
The wire that hooks up at the back of the alternator to the battery. The old SI one have like a plastic covet to avoid expose terminal. What's everybody doing to their CS?
Mine didn't come with the cover, and for now, I have electric tape wrap around to it. It's ok, but looks ugly.
Any suggestion?
1986 Silver MCSS - Poly bushing and Hotchkis spring w/Bilstein, Posi w/3.73, MSD 6-AL, E-Brock 600cfm, Aluminum 2-row radiator. 1986 Black MCSS - R.I.P............Finally.
|
|
|
#745753 - 12/04/09 12:49 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 87aeroNAPTOWN]
|
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,694
Minotaur15
15+ Year
|
15+ Year
Member
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,694
Manahawkin NJ
|
FinallySS,
Try going yarding for one. I have a plastic cover on mine.
Dan - minotaur15@hotmail.com Used to have: '86 MMC Road Course Ready 2020 Kia Forte GT Manual - Daily Driver
|
|
|
#745755 - 12/04/09 12:52 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 87aeroNAPTOWN]
|
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,694
Minotaur15
15+ Year
|
15+ Year
Member
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,694
Manahawkin NJ
|
Is there any other alternators with higher amperage output that will also bolt up. Other than? There are at least three aftermarket companies selling CS alts, and I think all of them offer them in higher amps. However, I think powermaster might be the only one with a 200 amp(?)
Dan - minotaur15@hotmail.com Used to have: '86 MMC Road Course Ready 2020 Kia Forte GT Manual - Daily Driver
|
|
|
#748841 - 12/16/09 06:56 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 87aeroNAPTOWN]
|
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 194
Partsguy19
Member
|
Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 194
Kernersville, NC
|
Is there any other alternators with higher amperage output that will also bolt up. 96amp alternator, Advance Auto Parts p/n 7294. Stock replacement/higher amps.
Work in progress!!!! 406, Flat Tops, 5.7 rods, 650 Double, 70cc heads, Summit 1105 Cam, Intake, 3:73, TH400, No-Hop bars, Headers and exhaust.. etc..
|
|
|
#749631 - 12/19/09 04:13 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 87aeroNAPTOWN]
|
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 53
SPR-PWR
Member
|
Member

Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 53
St. Louis
|
Is there any other alternators with higher amperage output that will also bolt up. I have a cs series alternator. It's 185 amps. I think I purchased it off an ebay vendor called Load Boss Altenators. You can hear the difference when between being connected and disconnected. I never put an amp meter on it... but heck, if it runs more than 130 amps, Im good.
1983 Monte Carlo SS / Turbocharged / 383 / Stealth Ram / Viper T56 / 9" rear
|
|
|
#775467 - 03/18/10 01:51 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 84supersport]
|
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 2,755
200kSS
20+ Year
|
20+ Year
Member
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 2,755
Bloomsdale, MO
|
Has anyone been able to find the GM or Delco p/n's listed in the opening post? I had my dealer check today, both are discontinued and do not cross to anything current. I'm looking to do this swap but would rather have a harness I know will work than attempt to re-wire something and risk killing a new alternator.
88 SS Black/Oxblood. Power Tour car 80 Malibu 2dr. Drag Week car
|
|
|
#775672 - 03/18/10 05:19 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 200kSS]
|
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,479
87ChooChoo
10+ Year
|
10+ Year
Member

Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,479
las Vegas, NV
|
They are available at the bottom of the page on this link: http://www.alternatorparts.com/CS-144_Special_offer.htm
85 El Camino Choo Choo with L31 350 Crate, TPI, Serp, TES Headers, GN 200-4r, 3.73 8.5 GN Posi, Acura Buckets, '04 GP Console, Electric Mirrors, Electronic HVAC, ZQ8 wheels, Blazer front brakes, LS1 rear brakes, and more.... https://sites.google.com/site/darbyselky/home
|
|
|
#775790 - 03/19/10 12:11 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 200kSS]
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,336
FrankOC
15+ Year
|
15+ Year
Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,336
Cape Cod, MA
|
Napa has them, I bought one last week. Give them the the GM or Delco part number and they can cross match it to their part number.
-------
|
|
|
#776217 - 03/20/10 01:30 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: FrankOC]
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,336
FrankOC
15+ Year
|
15+ Year
Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,336
Cape Cod, MA
|
Napa has them, I bought one last week. Give them the the GM or Delco part number and they can cross match it to their part number. Napa part no. EC82
-------
|
|
|
#791036 - 05/04/10 09:40 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: FrankOC]
|
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 2,755
200kSS
20+ Year
|
20+ Year
Member
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 2,755
Bloomsdale, MO
|
Ok I've got the conversion harness and have tested it with a CS alternator so I'm good there. Problem is the alternator does not begin to fit the stock bracket.
In the original posters pictures, it's obvious the top alternator bracket is NOT a stock monte carlo item. I noticed his car is has TPI, possibly an F-body item? Now I'm looking for an alternator that WILL fit the stock bracketry OR the correct bracket to make the 10463338 p/n fit correctly. Not going to serpentine belt just yet either, long story.
88 SS Black/Oxblood. Power Tour car 80 Malibu 2dr. Drag Week car
|
|
|
#791366 - 05/05/10 02:24 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 200kSS]
|
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 14,862
Gruvin
Moderator 15+ Year
|
Moderator 15+ Year
Member

Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 14,862
Texas
|
Ok I've got the conversion harness and have tested it with a CS alternator so I'm good there. Problem is the alternator does not begin to fit the stock bracket.
In the original posters pictures, it's obvious the top alternator bracket is NOT a stock monte carlo item. I noticed his car is has TPI, possibly an F-body item? Now I'm looking for an alternator that WILL fit the stock bracketry OR the correct bracket to make the 10463338 p/n fit correctly. Not going to serpentine belt just yet either, long story. It is possible to use the stock alternator bracket, however the spacer on the long bolt that goes between the alternator and the block is bolted to the stock alternator. You will have to unbolt it. It will not bolt to the CS style alternator, so just slip it over the long bolt. Also note that the upper bracket will have to be unbolted from the intake manifold. The CS alternator is larger that the SI, and you can't use the stock upper without unbolting it from the manifold. It may be possible to modify the bracket so that you can keep it bolted to the manifold, but I didn't bother trying and I'm satisfied with the tightness of the new alternator using the upper bracket without the manifold bolt. - BladeofAnduril27 Slotting the bracket hole where it attaches to the intake and washers under it and possibly re-angling the attachment point may get you the clearance needed from the stock bracket If not this way then a custom bracket that comes up from the water pump, the lower bracket from the water pump to the lower hole and a rear bolt brace to the front of the exhaust manifold EDIT: the OP's bracket is specific to 85/86 TPI cars and will not work on a carbed intake setup - he shows the difference between the two brackets in his first post on this thread
Last edited by Gruvin84SS; 05/05/10 02:25 PM.
My first SS! Sold Jan 2004 ![[Linked Image]](http://www.MonteCarloSS.com/images/Gruvin_84SS_sig.jpg) 87 SS bought 9-5-04: Sold 6-18-2010 - project 87 finds a new home with another undisclosed MonteCarloSS.com member!
|
|
|
#796616 - 05/24/10 04:23 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: Gruvin]
|
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 3
shmil
New Member
|
New Member
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 3
israel
|
Hello all. I'm located far away from the US, haven't got a Monte Carlo, but asking about the cs140, since I've seen, while googling, that the most serious answer was placed here. My cs140 (1146-21) had only the F and L connectors. I opened the connector, installing a sense wire also. The vehicle that I'm installing the alternator is a 58 willys, which it's electrical system was built from scratch by me, and the 90Amp existing alternator has only sense wire, and a 'stupid lamp', the way you call it.
The question – Will it work with sense and L? Should I put, in this kind of connecting, the 40ohms resistor, or it becomes unnecessary when using the Sense?
Thanks in advance. shmil
|
|
|
#796663 - 05/24/10 02:14 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: shmil]
|
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 14,862
Gruvin
Moderator 15+ Year
|
Moderator 15+ Year
Member

Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 14,862
Texas
|
You don't need the resistor wire when running the "stupid lamp" since the bulb creates all the resistance needed... I think this may answer your question about the sense wire: "Three-wire alternator. This is the most effective configuration. Essentially a closed loop "feed back" system. It uses a large battery wire, an ignition and or warning light connection and a voltage sensing wire. The advantages are a) the regulator is activated by the ignition/warning light wire, b) the sense wire, connected directly to the battery, continuously tells the voltage regulator the charge condition of the battery. (this information is significantly more accurate when sourced directly at the battery.) The voltage regulator infinitely varies the alternator output based on this information. No other configuration charges the battery as effectively." http://www.bernardembden.com/xjs/altmove/index.htm
My first SS! Sold Jan 2004 ![[Linked Image]](http://www.MonteCarloSS.com/images/Gruvin_84SS_sig.jpg) 87 SS bought 9-5-04: Sold 6-18-2010 - project 87 finds a new home with another undisclosed MonteCarloSS.com member!
|
|
|
#796831 - 05/24/10 11:48 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: shmil]
|
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 6,890
Z65_Paul
Administrator 20+ Year
|
Administrator 20+ Year
Member

Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 6,890
McDade, TX
|
The sense circuit (when used) is intended to be a remote sense of the voltage at the battery, not a local sense of the alternator output. I haven't looked into the details of the sense circuit, but I presume it is a high impedance input, meaning the voltage drop from the sense line is almost nothing. That way the voltage at the battery is what the sense circuit sees at the sense input to alternator. If sense was measured at the alternator battery output, the voltage drop (IR loss for those who understand electrical stuff) across the battery cable would not be taken into account. By having a remote sense, the length and gage of cable between alternator and battery (cable resistance), and the amount of current being drawn through that cable are irrelevant. The alternator supplies whatever power is required to keep the battery within the specified voltage range, as sensed remotely.
|
|
|
#804835 - 06/23/10 07:13 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: Z65_Paul]
|
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 709
sslover85
Member
|
Member
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 709
Killeen, Texas
|
Ok guys I have just left the yard and picked up 2 105 amp CS altenators. I used the first page as a guide and I got one off of an Impala/Caprice and the other one off of a Lumina Van. Here is where my problem lies. My car doesnt have a plug on the car, instead it has a wire bolted to the lug on the back that bolts to the battery and also a small wire that's clipped into terminal 2 and it also is bolted to the lug on the back. Help!!! What do I need to do???
 85 SS Sold 80 El Camino Sold 62 Chevy Impala 96 Impala SS
|
|
|
#804839 - 06/23/10 07:19 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: Z65_Paul]
|
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 709
sslover85
Member
|
Member
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 709
Killeen, Texas
|
I know it sounds confusing but I looked at the original setup again and that's how it is. The funny thing is my voltage guage works, it actually saved me once. The car was wired like this when I bought it over 7 years ago.
 85 SS Sold 80 El Camino Sold 62 Chevy Impala 96 Impala SS
|
|
|
#808406 - 07/07/10 01:15 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: AG]
|
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 313
Lincoln7
10+ Year
|
10+ Year
Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 313
hampton roads, VA
|
I gave Napa the part number 'EC82' and they pulled it right up. Good job finding alternate pn's, though.
86 MCSS 400sbc, T56, 8.5" 3.90 TrueTrac, Street/strip/road race 12.1 @ 117mph, 24 mpg
|
|
|
#808444 - 07/07/10 04:52 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: AG]
|
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,479
87ChooChoo
10+ Year
|
10+ Year
Member

Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,479
las Vegas, NV
|
The wire harnesese are also available at the bottom of the page on this link: http://www.alternatorparts.com/CS-144_Special_offer.htm
85 El Camino Choo Choo with L31 350 Crate, TPI, Serp, TES Headers, GN 200-4r, 3.73 8.5 GN Posi, Acura Buckets, '04 GP Console, Electric Mirrors, Electronic HVAC, ZQ8 wheels, Blazer front brakes, LS1 rear brakes, and more.... https://sites.google.com/site/darbyselky/home
|
|
|
#811591 - 07/21/10 06:55 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 87ChooChoo]
|
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,799
JAWSS
Member
|
Member

Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,799
Ft. Hood, TX
|
I was wondering why everyone is converting and forcing the original CS144 alternators in when this is available. Its a one wire conversion and ut seems to fit like stock. http://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS/555/10123/10002/-1
 86 Monte Carlo SS T-top 69 Cutlass S Convertible 70 Chevelle Malibu (Second owner, grandma car) 12 Cadillac CTS-V Wagon
|
|
|
#811799 - 07/22/10 03:39 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: JAWSS]
|
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 4,694
84supersport
Member
|
Member

Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 4,694
Louisville, KY
|
Because I paid $20 for the working alternator with 30-day warranty and then another $20 for the adapter harness through NAPA. And in my opinion, there wasnt any forcing. Only modification I did was open up the groove in the bracket for adjustment some so the bolt I used would fit and slide back and forth for belt tension. Everything thing else fit great, I just installed the upper bracket loosely before dropping the alternator in and then tightened everything up. It wont fit correctly with everything already tight.
84 Monte SS stolen September 2012. 077 DFE Jefferson County KY plate. $2500 reward. Vortec headed 350ci, th350, 3:73 limited slip cast aluminum cover, Autometer gauges, Pro-Stick, 2.5" fiberglass hood.  Matt
|
|
|
#867073 - 04/14/11 08:34 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: 84supersport]
|
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 709
sslover85
Member
|
Member
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 709
Killeen, Texas
|
Can I hook these up to an aftermarket volt gauge. I cannot find my alternator wires. Help!!! I am ready to do this swap I've been holding off too long. I've already bought the adapter from napa.
 85 SS Sold 80 El Camino Sold 62 Chevy Impala 96 Impala SS
|
|
|
#942094 - 08/13/12 08:26 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: mert]
|
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 184
tall t-top
Member
|
Member

Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 184
San Antonio, Texas
|
Another source for these alternators is out of 96-98 Buick Le-sabres. It has a extra mounting point on it that could be possibly used for mounting or cut off. The Le-sabres also have the metal fan for a more original look.
I found the adapter connectors at other auto parts store for various prices: Autozone- P/N 817-$32.99 Advance Auto Parts- P/N 84731-$21.79
For the top bolt i used a wing nut. the wing hits the bracket and keeps it from turning while you tighten the bolt down
Andrew
86 MC SS t-top, 305 with port and polish, Edlebrock Performer Intake, Flowtech Afterburner headers, duals to Jeg's chambered mufflers, Jeep steering shaft, Turbo Eclipse seats (Weekend toy but a project at the moment) 91 C1500 extended cab, TBI 350, 2in suspension lift, Jeep steering shaft. (Daily driver) 2012 Mitsu Outlander Sport (wife's car)
|
|
|
#944449 - 09/05/12 04:01 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: gmachinz]
|
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 184
tall t-top
Member
|
Member

Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 184
San Antonio, Texas
|
NEWS FLASH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On Rockauto .com: look up Dorman P/N 84731
This is the SI to CS adapter harness.
It is only: $9.06!!!!!!!!!!!!!
looking at the adapter from RockAuto, Advance Autoparts, and Autozone, they don't seem to have the required resistor like the one from Napa has. Just a observation. Would it be a issue to just install a resistor inline.
ok i made a error in my rush to post prices on the other connectors, I neglected to look closely. On the adapter from RockAuto, Advance and Autozone the pins in the connector on the CS side are wrong. NAPA one has them in the correct spots (1 and 3 position) but the others don't (1 and 2 position).
Andrew
86 MC SS t-top, 305 with port and polish, Edlebrock Performer Intake, Flowtech Afterburner headers, duals to Jeg's chambered mufflers, Jeep steering shaft, Turbo Eclipse seats (Weekend toy but a project at the moment) 91 C1500 extended cab, TBI 350, 2in suspension lift, Jeep steering shaft. (Daily driver) 2012 Mitsu Outlander Sport (wife's car)
|
|
|
#944450 - 09/05/12 04:05 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: tall t-top]
|
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 12,379
PB86SS/87LS
Administrator 20+ Year
|
Administrator 20+ Year
Member

Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 12,379
New Berlin, WI
|
If anyone is looking for the SI to CS harness I have a used one available, if interested PM me for more info.
- 86'SS 383 CCC QJet- BRF 2004r-8.5" 3.42 - 87'LS 350 MAF/SD TPI- CRF 2004r-7.5" 3.42 - 81'Grand LeMans Safari Wagon 350 CCC Q-Jet/CZF 2004-r/8.5" 3.73 - 07'TBSS Stockish daily driver
|
|
|
#945236 - 09/13/12 02:04 PM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: PB86SS/87LS]
|
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 78
bnelson85ss
Member
|
Member
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 78
Waunakee, WI
|
Great guide. I just finished doing this swap last night on my 85. I ordered a replacement alternator for a 96 impala. I used the napa harness EC82, and swapped pulleys over from Mr. gasket kit #6808($20). I was able to retain the stock bracket by loosening one of the bracket bolts and adjusting with a mallet. Everything bolted in and aligned without issue.
1985 Monte Carlo SS
|
|
|
#1056927 - 04/16/18 08:24 AM
Re: CS144 Alternator Conversion
[Re: jac1599]
|
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,221
FinallySS
10+ Year
|
10+ Year
Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,221
Nice Sunny Hawaii
|
If you are tired of having someone hold the alternator while you tighten the belt, you can tap it using 7/16 tap, either fine or coarse. I used 7/16-20x3/4 bolt and it's holding fine. You probably have to grind the bolt slot for the bracket little wider if you're using the stock bracket. I used both file and Dremel, and only took about 15 minute (maybe little less) to make the slot bigger. Just make sure you do it for the length of the slot so you won't have any trouble in the future when you have to go beyond where you have the bolt right now.
1986 Silver MCSS - Poly bushing and Hotchkis spring w/Bilstein, Posi w/3.73, MSD 6-AL, E-Brock 600cfm, Aluminum 2-row radiator. 1986 Black MCSS - R.I.P............Finally.
|
|
|
Moderated by 345HP87SSAC, 85_SS, Dalt10, Gruvin, mannblk, MC87SS, mcss383, MY FYN 79, PB86SS/87LS, Phil87SS, Russ, ss4ever, TPI Monte SS, Z65_Paul
|
|
by clyde
|
by Ted88SS
|
by FuzzyDnkn
|
by ls1_monte
|
by montess406
|
|
Recent Contributors
kevins88ss
|
|
|