I know there's been endless discussion around alternative alternators, so forgive me if this is a repeat question but I've been unable to find a straight answer in searches.

I have what appears to be a very standard Lucas alternator on my 1970 Mini K. I don't know what model it is, or what its output is (other than inadequate).. without pulling it out I can't find any markings on it other than 'Lucas' on two sides. It does have an external regulator, however, and three wires: brown/yellow & brown/green which go off to the regulator, and a heavy gauge brown wire to the starter solenoid.

Now, I'm starting to find gremlins creeping into the electrics -- the fuel and temperature gauges tend to wander, and the gauge and headlights beat or pulse a little depending on revs. Also, the alternator bearing is sounding pretty sad, and the battery isn't getting a great deal of charge.

So, time for a new alternator then.

Question is, what? I've got 55/60W H4 headlights and 55W spots on relays, electronic ignition, stereo, fans, etc. so I'm pretty confident the standard Lucas alternator isn't up to the job, especially in its current condition.

I'm looking at replacing it with something capable of 65-70A, but I currently don't have a great deal of time to spend at a wrecker finding a Jap or Bosch alternator and engineering it to fit, so what are my options? Did Lucas (or Rover) produce a bolt-on high-capacity replacement alternator? Would I be correct in assuming such a beast would have an internal regulator, and if so what wiring changes am I looking at? What's the best place to find one?

So many questions...

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Simon

The adventures of an owner builder in the Tallarook Ranges

Try Steve at Brickworx, as the Rovers with air-con have a bigger one that will bolt straight on. As for wiring it up unsure on that.
Cheers Pete

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You can also try convertiblemini here on the forum as he is an auto electrician and could supply you with a 65/85 amp alternator as well as instructions for wiring it up seeing as you have an external regulator. What you currently have is totally inadequate for what you are trying to run.

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1964 998 Cooper , 1968 Morris 1100

If fitting a later Lucas alternator (which all have an internal regulator), the 15AC's external regulator is not used. Just plug the brown/yellow wire onto the Ind terminal of the new alternator, and the brown/green wire (field) is not used. Just tape it up.

Whether you remove the old external regulator, or leave it there, it won't be used anyway. If you are worried just pull its plug out.

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DrMini- 1970 wasaMatic 1360, Mk1S crank, 86.6HP (ATW) =~125 @ crank, 45 Dellorto (38 chokes), RE282 sprint cam, 1.5 rockers, 11.0:1 C/R.

Awesome, thanks Kev - that's exactly what I needed to know

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Simon

The adventures of an owner builder in the Tallarook Ranges

I've bought one of these for the "project"....

http://www.minisport.com.au/prod381.htm

I just went to the local auto electrician in Fyshwick who sold me a 90 amp unit that bolted straight into the Mini. I think it was a tiny bit cheaper than the Msport unit.

There;s no magic in it.

Cheers, Ian

ive got one of his 85AMP altenators, works a treat

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00' Forester GT

Same thing here, went to a auto electrician and got 90 amp for less tham what i could find in any mini shop!

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If you are after an alternator from a late model rover engine (quickly) try mini imports in melbourne as he normally has a few available.

Failing that go to an auto elec and see if they have a bosch alternator to suit.
i could be mistaken but i think an EA - ED falcon alternator bolts straight on but before you do that im sure you need to change the pulley as they come with a multi ribbed belt pulley not the v-belt as required.

I hope this is of some use.

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDMkVq1jRGU

The EA did come with a V pulley, not poly-vee like later ones, but they are all worn U-shaped- it's best to find a new/better pulley.

When I had an EA Ford, I bored a cast iron Lucas 15AC pulley to fit.

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DrMini- 1970 wasaMatic 1360, Mk1S crank, 86.6HP (ATW) =~125 @ crank, 45 Dellorto (38 chokes), RE282 sprint cam, 1.5 rockers, 11.0:1 C/R.

Only you doc.... lol.... what other cars alternators can be made to fit?

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“A turbo: exhaust gasses go into the turbocharger and spin it, witchcraft happens and you go faster.” - Jeremy Clarkson

EA alternators come in 65 70 and 85 Amp and are readily available. I'm pretty sure Pick-A-Part are only asking $35 for any alternator

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Mister White Keys
"He who has the most toys, Wins"

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