I'll be doing the 3G alternator upgrade in the very near future. First off, exactly which alternator do I need, and do I need one of the kits (87 Turbo Coupe)? I am fairly certain which one, but want to be sure.
Secondly, I'd like to have the two halves of the case powdercoated the same candy red as the rest of my parts. How difficult are the two halves to take apart so I could bring them in to be coated? Thanks in advance!
PA Performance offers powder coated 3G's, and give a lifetime warranty on them. Can't comment on the ease or lack thereof on disassembly, never done it, sorry.
You FOR SURE need to increase the size of the charge wire. Jeff Korn (Jeff K) has written an excellent how-to that's in the Tech Articles section. His method preserves the amp gauge functionality.
HTH
I know PA offers alternators already PC'ed, but I can get a plain aluminum case one much cheap AND have it powder coated to match the rest of my parts EXACTLY. I intend to upgrade the wiring. Safety is one thing I don't think is worth cheaping out on.
It's not difficult to separate the housing of a 3G. The rear casing will probably fall right off, the front may take a little prying on the two housings. Use three screw drivers and it can be done with no damage. It's actually 3 parts though. The center part has the rectifier/diode plate and can't be conveviently separated from the stator coils. Not sure you want to put that part in a 400 deg. oven for powder coating. You'll have to research and answer that question.
The front main bearing will probably require replacing, it's a press fit (lite to moderate) so you may damage it getting it out. You'll need to remove it so the seals don't get damaged by the heat.
Love to see a pic when you're finished.
maybe you can send PA a color sample and they can PC it that color for you.
Its not that hard to take it apart...