Voltage issue

[johnsoex]

EDIT....

Drrr...just did a search on here (which I should have done first) and realized that this effin alternator shuts down to save fuel. Useless.

So now the questions becomes, how stay at 14-14.5 constantly? New alternator? Any drop ins that will work with the stock belt and no crazy mods?

 

[edgaranah1]

There is an OEM High Output amp out there. Haven't really tested it out on my own or haven't read any reviews on them so I'm not sure if its worth it or not.
With that High Output it shouldn't have a problem keeping the correct voltage.

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[johnsoex]

I already have the 160 amp alternator. I found some more posts and found that all I have to do it keep my headlights on and the alternator will stay in charge mode. Tried it on a 2 hour roadtrip yesterday and voltage stayed at 14. I always find the best information on this site. Thanks, guys.

 

[edgaranah1]

Hhmm didn't know that either. Guess I learned something new today.

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[domin8]

The other solution you could do so that you don't go through lights as fast is to just weld the clutch in the alternator. A lot of supercharged Cobalt guys are doing that when they switch to turbochargers.

 

[johnsoex]

That I did not know! The other solution is to engage the tow/haul mode. From what I read it will keep the alternator in "charge" mode. Down side is keeps me in 3rd. I have an 08 LTZ with the 4 speed tranny.

When you say "weld", are you literally talking about cracking open the alternator and welding something down? I thought the charge/no-charge swichting was computer based not mechanical?