How High-Output Alternators Improve Performance in Muscle Cars

When you think about modding your muscle car, what's the first thing that comes to mind? Probably starting with a cold air intake, tune, and exhaust, right? Even if you’re deeper down the rabbit hole you’re probably considering bigger intake manifolds for your forced induction setup or even suspension mods to keep your back end from folding from all the torque you’re putting down. While these mods are a ton of fun, don't overlook high-output alternators, especially if you’re running a lot of accessories ranging from new gauge clusters to brighter headlights. This article takes you through why you should consider a high-output alternator by bringing you through the various benefits they can offer.

What Is a High-Output Alternator?

Your OEM alternator is made to handle stock power requirements, lights, and interior accessories, which is fine if you’re keeping things stock. For this reason, stock alternators have around 65-100 amps, which is just fine. The second you plan on installing engine modifications and new accessories or exterior lights, considering a high-output alternator can improve your engine's performance and maximize the mods you install. Simply put, a high-output alternator is an alternator that offers higher amperage levels, more consistent voltage, and better charging for your car’s battery. While a little more expensive, these alternators will ensure that everything is working properly and that you’re not leaving any power on the table.

Five Ways High-Output Alternators Improve Performance in Muscle Cars

High-output alternators do a lot more than keeping your headlights on at night. Learn more about how high-output alternators improve performance in muscle cars below.

Increased Amperage

An alternator’s amperage is important because it determines how much power you can get to additional accessories. If your muscle car is running a lot of accessories like an air conditioner, bright aftermarket lights, or other electrical modifications, having the necessary amperage to run those accessories will improve your engine’s performance. This is also handy for extra cooling fans you may have or other parts that rely on electricity to keep your engine healthy. At the end of the day, if you’re adding a lot of electrical accessories to your muscle car it doesn't hurt to have an alternator that gives you over 150 amps. In fact, even replacing your stock speakers may drain your OEM alternator, so always check the power requirements for any electronics you plan on installing.

Say Goodbye to Voltage Loss

A high-output alternator will prevent voltage loss by providing consistent power to all of your accessories. For example, if you’re running a lot of accessories and notice dips in voltage when you turn on headlights, interior accessories, or other things that require a power supply, installing a high-output alternator will immediately solve this problem for you. Plus, this will preserve your car’s battery if the alternator isn't supplying enough power to charge it at idle. Some alternators will even do a better job charging your battery, so you won't have to worry about your car not starting or stalling out in front of everyone at your next car meet.

Improved Design

Not every alternator is made equal, so opting for one that has a better design can help you shave a few seconds off your quarter-mile time. Let's say you have a base Coyote 5.0, which comes with a decent alternator from the factory. While it comes with a good setup, have you ever wondered why the Boss 302 doesn't have many of the same power problems at higher RPMs, even with more modifications to the engine? It's because the alternator that Ford made for the 302 is made to operate at higher RPMs thanks to its one-way clutch that prevents belt hop-off when you shift. In fact, it also comes with a larger pulley that reduces the horsepower drain that many alternators put on the engine. Upgrading Your Mustang's alternator is only one example, and brands like SR Performance carry plenty of premium alternators for every muscle car make and model.

Upgrading Older Electrical Systems

Not all muscle cars are the same, and while we love the classics, we'd be lying if we told you they outperform their modern counterparts. Unfortunately, the OEM-style alternators from back in the day don't have the same amperage as their modern counterparts. If you want to bring an older muscle up to speed or even add features or accessories that didn't come with it from the factory, it's time to upgrade your alternator. Due to the fact that many older cars don't have a ton of electrical accessories to begin with, if you skimp out on the alternator, you may be left without A/C when you need it the most. Aside from the alternator, it's a good idea to upgrade your old wiring and connectors to ensure that the power flows through everything smoothly.

Reduced Weight

Are you using your muscle car for a little high-octane fun at the track? You may want to consider a high-output alternator that's made with lightweight materials to reduce weight. While your average alternator doesn't weigh a ton, opting for a smaller, high-performance alternator can reduce the parasitic drain that OEM-style alternators place on the engine. Plus, if you’re removing the seats, air conditioner, and other parts and accessories to reduce weight, you should opt for an alternator that gives you the perfect amperage – nothing more, nothing less. This can be tricky, so always consult with our sales techs if you have any questions. It's important to note that you won't be getting massive performance gains here, but sometimes a little bit is all you need to break your previous run time.

Get the High-Output Alternator You Need Today!

Whether you need a high-output alternator to handle all of your interior and exterior accessories, or you plan on installing performance that benefits from more power, you've come to the right place. Shop online and connect with our sales techs to find the perfect part for your build. Then, order online for fast and convenient shipping.