K Swap Alternator Relocation

The K-series engine is a popular choice for engine swaps due to its compact size, high power output, and relatively low cost. However, one of the challenges of performing a K-swap is relocating the alternator. The stock alternator location on a K-series engine is on the front of the engine, which can interfere with the installation of a new intake manifold or other components.

There are a few different ways to relocate the alternator on a K-swap. One option is to use a relocation bracket that mounts the alternator on the side of the engine. Another option is to use a remote alternator mount that places the alternator in a different location entirely, such as in the trunk or under the car.

K Swap Alternator Relocation

There are a few important points to consider when relocating the alternator on a K-swap:

• Mounting location: The new mounting location for the alternator should be carefully chosen to ensure that it does not interfere with any other components.
• Wiring: The wiring for the alternator will need to be extended or modified to reach the new mounting location.
• Belt tension: The belt tension will need to be adjusted to ensure that the alternator is properly charging the battery.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your K-swap alternator relocation is successful.

Mounting location: The new mounting location for the alternator should be carefully chosen to ensure that it does not interfere with any other components.

The new mounting location for the alternator should be carefully chosen to ensure that it does not interfere with any other components, such as the intake manifold, exhaust manifold, or power steering pump.

• Clearance: There should be enough clearance around the alternator to allow for proper airflow and access to the alternator's terminals.
• Belt alignment: The new mounting location should allow for the alternator to be properly aligned with the drive belt.
• Accessibility: The alternator should be easily accessible for maintenance and replacement.
• Cooling: The new mounting location should allow for the alternator to be adequately cooled.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a new mounting location for the alternator that will ensure its proper operation and longevity.

Wiring: The wiring for the alternator will need to be extended or modified to reach the new mounting location.

The wiring for the alternator will need to be extended or modified to reach the new mounting location. This may involve extending the existing wires or using new wires altogether. It is important to use high-quality wire that is rated for the amperage draw of the alternator.

The following steps should be followed when extending or modifying the alternator wiring:

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Locate the alternator wiring harness. This harness will typically consist of three wires: a positive wire, a negative wire, and a sense wire.
3. Cut the alternator wiring harness at a location that will allow the wires to be extended to the new mounting location.
4. Strip the ends of the wires and connect them to the appropriate terminals on the alternator. The positive wire should be connected to the "B+" terminal, the negative wire should be connected to the "GND" terminal, and the sense wire should be connected to the "S" terminal.
5. Secure the connections with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing.
6. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

It is important to test the alternator after relocating it to ensure that it is charging the battery properly. This can be done by using a voltmeter to measure the voltage at the battery terminals. The voltage should be between 13.5 and 14.5 volts when the engine is running.

Belt tension: The belt tension will need to be adjusted to ensure that the alternator is properly charging the battery.

The belt tension will need to be adjusted to ensure that the alternator is properly charging the battery. If the belt is too loose, it will slip and the alternator will not be able to generate enough power. If the belt is too tight, it will put excessive stress on the alternator and the bearings may fail.

• Proper tension: The belt should be tight enough to prevent slipping, but not so tight that it puts excessive stress on the alternator.
• Testing the tension: The belt tension can be tested by pressing on the belt with your thumb. The belt should deflect about 1/2 inch when pressed.
• Adjusting the tension: The belt tension can be adjusted by loosening the alternator mounting bolts and moving the alternator towards or away from the engine. Once the proper tension is achieved, tighten the alternator mounting bolts.
• Checking the tension: After adjusting the belt tension, check the voltage at the battery terminals with a voltmeter. The voltage should be between 13.5 and 14.5 volts when the engine is running.

By following these steps, you can ensure that the alternator belt is properly tensioned and that the alternator is charging the battery properly.

FAQ

The following are some frequently asked questions about K-swap alternators:

Question 1: What is the best mounting location for a K-swap alternator?
Answer 1: The best mounting location for a K-swap alternator is on the side of the engine, using a bracket that is specifically designed for this purpose.

Question 2: What size alternator is recommended for a K-swap?
Answer 2: A 100-amp alternator is a good choice for most K-swapped applications.

Question 3: What type of belt should be used with a K-swap alternator?
Answer 3: A serpentine belt is the best choice for a K-swap alternator.

Question 4: How do I wire a K-swap alternator?
Answer 4: The wiring for a K-swap alternator is relatively straightforward. The positive wire should be connected to the "B+" terminal on the alternator, the negative wire should be connected to the "GND" terminal, and the sense wire should be connected to the "S" terminal.

Question 5: How do I adjust the belt tension on a K-swap alternator?
Answer 5: The belt tension on a K-swap alternator can be adjusted by loosening the alternator mounting bolts and moving the alternator towards or away from the engine. Once the proper tension is achieved, tighten the alternator mounting bolts.

Question 6: What are some common problems with K-swap alternators?
Answer 6: Some common problems with K-swap alternators include:

• Loose or damaged wiring
• Failed bearings
• Slipping belt

Closing Paragraph for FAQ: By following the tips and advice in this FAQ, you can ensure that your K-swap alternator is properly installed and functioning properly.

Tips

Here are a few tips for K-swap alternator relocation:

Tip 1: Use a high-quality alternator.

A high-quality alternator will be more reliable and durable than a cheap alternator. It is also important to choose an alternator that is the correct amperage for your application.

Tip 2: Use a properly sized belt.

The belt should be tight enough to prevent slipping, but not so tight that it puts excessive stress on the alternator. A serpentine belt is the best choice for a K-swap alternator.

Tip 3: Ensure that the alternator is properly grounded.

A poor ground connection can cause the alternator to malfunction. Make sure that the alternator is grounded to a clean, bare metal surface.

Tip 4: Test the alternator after relocating it.

Once the alternator is relocated, test it to make sure that it is charging the battery properly. This can be done by using a voltmeter to measure the voltage at the battery terminals. The voltage should be between 13.5 and 14.5 volts when the engine is running.

Closing Paragraph for Tips: By following these tips, you can ensure that your K-swap alternator relocation is successful.

Conclusion

K-swap alternator relocation is a relatively straightforward procedure that can be completed in a few hours. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can ensure that your alternator is properly relocated and functioning properly.

Here is a summary of the main points:

• The best mounting location for a K-swap alternator is on the side of the engine, using a bracket that is specifically designed for this purpose.
• A 100-amp alternator is a good choice for most K-swapped applications.
• A serpentine belt is the best choice for a K-swap alternator.
• The wiring for a K-swap alternator is relatively straightforward. The positive wire should be connected to the "B+" terminal on the alternator, the negative wire should be connected to the "GND" terminal, and the sense wire should be connected to the "S" terminal.
• The belt tension on a K-swap alternator can be adjusted by loosening the alternator mounting bolts and moving the alternator towards or away from the engine.
• Some common problems with K-swap alternators include loose or damaged wiring, failed bearings, and slipping belt.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your K-swap alternator relocation is successful and that your alternator is charging the battery properly.