Difference between 325i/is alternators?

[Slick33]

Hey guys,
Does anybody know if there's a power output difference between the alternators on the 325i and the 325is? The alternator on my 1990 325i is going out, and I got to thinking that since I've got some stereo equipment in my car, perhaps a higher output alternator would be helpful (fwiw, I know that the stereo stuff did not kill the alternator, since it was slowly going out at the time I purchased the car. I should've swapped it earlier, I know, but what can I say, I procrastinated!). I figured if the is alternator had a higher output, it'd be a relatively inexpensive upgrade (not to mention one without a hassle, since any aftermarket alternator designed to power huge stereo components would more than likely require some sort of bracket to adapt it to our motors).

Thanks guys.

Dustin

[Dave]

Same engine - same alternator.

[DaN]

Ya, why would it have a higher output?

[Digitalwave]

Stock alternators are quite capable unless you are running 3 amps or something. A stock alternator and a small capacitor are all you need.

[BMWguy]

You might only need to replace the voltage regulator which can be done for around $30 -$40... test it with a multi-meter before you replace the whole alternator...

Also using larger guage power/ground wire and/or making sure you have GOOD grounds on stereo equipement can help reduce the amount of drain on your alternator...

[Slick33]

I figured there was a chance that they may have used a higher-output alternator for fully-optioned cars. Hence why I asked. :)
The voltage regulator is what's dying on the alternator (I've had the blinking light syndrome since I picked the car up 8 months ago, and over the past couple days my CEL has occasionally been blinking at higher RPM's in tune with the flashing headlights, which suggests to me that the alternator may be overcharging). I'd replace just the voltage regulator, but I figure with 130k on the alternator, I might as well just do the whole thing.

Digitalwave, those wheels look awesome on the bronzit...what are they?

[permit]

Digitalwave, those wheels look awesome on the bronzit...what are they?

[Dave]

Actually, on my monitor, TJ's sig, with the sun setting almost looks like he has a bronzit rear bumper on his Sterling car.

[Digitalwave]

Digitalwave, those wheels look awesome on the bronzit...what are they?

My car is sterling silver and for that you don't get to know what my rims are :grin:

[redhatpat]

My car is sterling silver and for that you don't get to know what my rims are :grin:

Digitalwave, thats a great looking sterling silver car you got there, what kind of rims are those? ;)

[Digitalwave]

They are 16x7" Rota Grids :)

[Slick33]

My car is sterling silver and for that you don't get to know what my rims are

lol...sorry dude, my bad. You have to admit the car looks a little like bronzit in your sig, though. ;)
Still looks hot regardless!

[BMWguy]

I does look slightly bronzit now that you mentioned it... sorry TJ!

I have a used voltage reg. you can have for $15 shipped...

still lmao at TJ's bronzit............ LOL

[permit]

TJ gets pwn3d, again. This is funny.

[Slick33]

hahaha...guess I just stuck myself on DigitalWave's shitlist :D