Gang,
A few weeks back I went through my supply of spare parts. Turns out I have no spare alternators for 2 cars. I’d like to have a couple on hand just in case they get rare. Or just in case my alternator fails on a Sunday at 7:00 p.m… like they always seem to do. Usually a 3 day weekend.

I’ve been using 12SI alternators for years in 2 1966 cars. I think they’re 94 amp or more and I’ve modified my wiring harnesses to work well with them. I’ve also notched the lower engine mounting brackets to allow the larger-than-stock alternator to fit. In a word, I’m “committed” to the 12SI model. Both cars have alternators clocked at 9:00. At least I’m only looking for 1 clock position…

If I’m going to stock spares, I’d like to stock the best ones I can find.

My cars don’t have electric fans, EFI, or stuff like that but they do have aftermarket stereos with subwoofers. Not the kind of subs that will shake the earth, but reasonable-for-an-old guy bass.

Where should I look? What vendors, manufacturers do you recommend?

Specifically, does anyone have a recommendation for a high quality 12SI alternator clocked to 9:00?

Thanks in advance for your URL’s and comments
Chris

 

Chris, ACDELCO 3342305 or REMY 20269. Each is around $85 at RockAuto. These are from a 1987 Custom Cruiser with the Olds 307.

 

Write down those numbers, keep them in the car. That way if you ever have alternator issues 10 miles northeast of nowhere a replacement is no further than your local autozone.

 

Many thanks guys. I’ll check out those numbers on RockAuto now.

The only thing holding me up is confirming the clock position they’ll be delivered in.

I’ve never had much luck reclocking an alternator, so I just prefer to get them in the position I need.

Cheers
Chris

 

Clocking position for these alternators is at 9:00 when looking at the back of the alternator. These are designed for 307s, which all used the driver-side alternator bracket, so the connector was pointed outboard, away from the engine.

 

Joe,
Many thanks for the link & citation. I put in an order at RockAuto this evening to have a spare around.

Your post and the RockAuto picture of your recommendation give me confidence that I just spent $100 on the right part.

I went for AC/Delco since my main mechanic has had the best luck with that brand. I have no particular allegiance, but he’s got a lot more experience than me with alternators.

Cheers
Chris