13 replies to this topic

[Dom]

Ok, I was planning to have a sub/amp in the boot as well as the 6x9s i have under the seats and the components up front.

My dad spoke to someone at work who said that minis were renowed for having problems with the alternator if they have subs in them.

Is this true? and what do you do to prevent it?

[thatluke]

They only have problems if people CREATE the problem..

A standard Mini alternator (I think) is rated at a max. load of 27A. That is usually just about to run the car and a standard or 'sensible' sound system. If you're going to go crazy and fit just about every bit of ice in your Mini, an uprated alternator is probably a good idea, although this takes a few BHP out of your engine.

I have no idea of figures since I've never meatured my Mini (I don't have I.C.E fitted yet). I was however advised that I can run a pretty simple set up (2 speakers, and a sub) with amp on the existing alternator. Of course, I wouldn't count primarily on this information - you need to do the maths. See what your amp is going to pull.. that's the main part. Also the sorts of amps that the headunit will pull.

[Don't Panic]

I'm wiring in my headunit, cd changer and 2 amps (i'll get the power ratings later), fortuantly the previous owner added a 45 amp alternator, i'll let you know if i get any problems, and also when ive done the maths, to give you an idea.

[philster]

If you have the headlamps. wipers, heated rear screen and heater on at the same time most standard mini alternators struggle.

Most minis have the 17acr as this is stated as the replacement and very few older minis have the original on, this is rated at 35amps and should be okay for most applications.
The MG metro type alternator was rated at 55amps i believe.

I've ordered an XR3i alternator (75amp) off ebay, its not a straight fit but with a relatively simple adjustment to the casing should go straight on, i'll be doing a guide on it once i've got it, watch this space for a link.

[philster]

Just had a look in the metro manual, there are 2 types listed one is the Lucas 18ACR (43amps) and the other is the Motorola 9AR2683G (45amps)

There are also the Lucas A115/45amp, Lucas A127/45amp, Lucas A127/55amp and the Lucas A133/55amp

[chairchild]

an alternator from an Escort (55A) fits straight in :wink:

[Dom]

Thanks for the responces very useful.

How about a J reg escort?

[chairchild]

yup, should do!

Just have at it to see if it looks vaugly like yours to be sure though :wink:

[Dom]

What are the prices these days of a 306 battery and an alternator of an escort?

[PikeyMini]

dunno - batteries are about 30quid, alternator could get quite cheap off ebay i am sure

I am going to have to upgrade the alternator me thinks!

[chairchild]

I got mine from a scrapyard for a tenner, and for the battery - just take a tape measure to Halfrauds


Find a battery that will physically fit in the battery tray (you'll be suprised how much extra space there is!) and then just get the battery with the biggest Ah rating



standard mini battery is something like 25Ah - I fitted a 140ah one into my old mini! (severre starting problems)

[binge]

Ive got 2 amps, 3 Subs and 2 components.

My alternator is standard. As is my battery.

I have no problems.

[Dom]

Oh.

[binge]

Oh.

Yea, as you saw last night! :tongue:

I think its Neil who needs the uprated alternator, Not us!
He still didnt get that thing started in the end.


<|Ben|>