If your Ford 7.3L truck’s headlights, stereo system, and other electronic components have been acting up, it may be time to replace the alternator. A faulty alternator can cause several problems with your truck, from engine stalling to the annoyance of an always-on battery warning light. You may also notice headlights flickering, whining noise from the engine start, and possibly a power outage.
Ideally, you will want to check and replace the alternator at the first sign of trouble. But, more importantly, you will want to get the best alternator for 7.3 Powerstroke. There are several contenders for this title, and we have narrowed them down to seven.
These seven are all brand new and not rebuilt. We know there are plenty of cheap rebuilt alternators on the market, but for the best results and longevity, we advise against them.
Number one spot goes to theBOSCH AL7526N Premium 100% New Alternator - Compatible with Select... * (#ad), which directly replaces the 7.3 Powerstroke alternator. It has the same amps rating as the factory one and is very easy to install.
Second is the Eagle High Fits Alternator High Output 7.3L Diesel Ford F250 F350... * (#ad), which offers the best value for money with its 240 amp rating and 8 groove pulley. However, it may require some modifications to install in some models, hence why it is number two.
A Quick View Of Our Top Alternator For 7.3 Powerstroke
Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change
Symptoms Of Bad 7.3 Powerstroke Alternator
Before you decide to spend money on a new alternator, you need to ensure that your vehicle requires one. Some of the common signs of a bad alternator are;
- Dim/Flickering Headlights: Your headlights will be the first to feel the effects of a faulty alternator. As such, if you notice that your taillights and headlights are dimmer than usual or tend to flicker a lot, the alternator may be to blame. Also, you may notice that your power windows have become slower.
- Battery Warning Light Turns On: When the battery warning light on your dashboard is on, you may think it’s a problem with the battery. However, more often than not, it is because the alternator volt capacity has dropped below 13-14.5 volts causing the battery warning to light up. The light will also light up if the alternator exceeds its voltage capacity. Overall if the battery warning light is on, it may be because of a failing alternator.
- Battery Issues: The alternator is also responsible for charging the battery while driving. So if it is faulty, you will have problems starting your vehicle. In extreme cases, your car will not start due to the battery being dead.
- Whining Noises: if you hear whining noises from your truck’s engine, it may be a sign of a faulty alternator. The noise may be due to the gears in the alternator being worn out, which causes the grinding and whining noises.
- Burning Rubber Smell: the alternator uses a belt system to generate friction, generating volts. A faulty alternator may lead to the belt being loose, which leads to a burning rubber smell.
- Trouble Of Starting the Engine or Frequent Stalling Due To Bad Alternator: If your car is having trouble starting or it stalls frequently, you may have a bad alternator or bad fuel pump. If the alternator isn’t working properly, meaning the 7.3 glow plug isn’t getting enough power or getting excessive power. As a result, your 7.3L Powerstroke won’t be able to start and it will stall out. You can usually fix this by replacing the alternator. When the glow plug not getting enough power or acting weirdly it’ll grunt and then stall.
How to test alternator on 7.3 Powerstroke
If you suspect something is wrong with the alternator, it is always a good idea to test it first before dashing it to the nearest auto parts store. First, to test the alternator, crank up the engine up to 2000 RPMs.
Let the engine rev for about 20 seconds and then let it come back to idle. While the engine is running, remove the negative cable of the engine using an adjustable wrench. If the engine is still running, then the alternator outputs us okay.
Next, turn on the headlights. Then use a voltmeter probe and attach the positive probe to the positive battery post. Then attach the negative probe to the battery’s negative post. While the engine is idling, check the voltmeter.
If the alternator is working correctly, you should get a 13 to 14.5 volts reading. If you get a reading below 13 volts, it may signify a faulty alternator.
How To Replace Alternator on 7.3 Powerstroke Truck?
To replace a faulty alternator, you will require several tools. These include;
- 13 mm socket and ratchet
- ½ inch drive Breaker bar
- 10mm wrench
- Flat blade screwdriver
First, use the socket wrench to disconnect the battery cables. Once the battery is disconnected, use the breaker to loosen the belt. There is a ½ inch hole under the belt where you will find the belt tensioner.
Use the breaker bar to loosen the belt. Then remove the belt; when removing the belt, ensure you know the belt routing. There should be a belt routing sticker at the top of the grill. Take the belt off the alternator.
Remove the two-wire cables attached to the alternator. The first cable is easy enough to remove; however, you will require a 10 mm wrench for the one on the left. Use it to loosen the bolt that attached the cable to the alternator.
Wrap the wire cable with a piece of cloth once you have removed it. This is done as a precaution. The alternator is held into place with three bolts, using the socket wrench to loosen the three bolts.
Once the bolts are off, remove the alternator. Take the new alternator and attach it using the three bolts. Use the socket wrench to tighten the bolts. Next, attach the charging cable to the back of the new alternator.
The alternator will come with a new nut for attaching the charging cable. Use it to secure the charging cable to the new alternator. Attach the other cable as well. Attach the belt to the front of the alternator.
Fasten the belt tensioner and then reattach the battery cables.
Tips of How To Maintain and Keep the Alternator In Working Condition
- Examine the belt: The alternator belt is made of rubber, and it does wear and tear over time in most cases after 40,000 to 70,000 miles. It is important to change the belt at the first signs of aging. Examine the belt when doing routine maintenance
- Keep it clean: dust, debris, and other dirt can cause damage to your alternator and lead to it having a shorter lifespan. It is thus essential to clean out any dust or debris on the engine.
- Keep it aligned: if the alternator and crankshaft pulley is not aligned correctly, it can cause problems. It is thus essential to ensure the pulley is well aligned.
Best alternator for 7.3 Powerstroke reviews
Bosch AL7526N 100% New Alternator
The Bosch AL7526N is an impressive alternator for its price. We installed it on an 1196 Ford f250 truck with a 7.3 Powerstroke engine. And the first thing we noted about it is how great it charges at idle.
While it has the same amp rating of 130 amps, it performed better at idle than the factory alternator we had on the truck. It also looks very well made and should be able to withstand high heat environments.
It wasn’t the perfect fit for the truck we would have liked as we had to change the pulley wheel. But once the wheel was changed, the installation was pretty straightforward and took about 10 minutes. For the price, it is great value for money.
Eagle High Fits Alternator
The Eagle High fits alternator is designed for the F250 and F350 95 96 97 and 98 models. It is a 240 amp alternator that comes with an 8 groove pulley. And while it fits the above-mentioned models, it can fit into other 7.3 models as well with a few modifications.
We have installed this on both a 1997 F250 and a 2001 F250. And in our experience, it is a perfect fit for any pre-1999 model. On the 2001 F250, we had to make some modifications, but it did fit.
It came with a new 8 groove pulley, which was a nice addition. Also, at 240 amp rating, it is quite high and will require a strong battery. For the 1997 F250, we had to recommend a new battery. So you may have to get a new battery to work with this alternator. The extra cost may be an issue for some, but it is well worth it.
Bosch Automotive AL598N 100% New Alternator
As with all other Bosch alternators, the Automotive AL598N is a brand new alternator for the 1991-05 Ford Aerostar, Bronco, E-150, E-250, E-350, Explorer, F-150, F-250, F-350, Ranger models.
We had this on a 1997 F250, and the wire positions and connectors were identical. The pulley was also matched, which made the installation process easy. At a 95 amp rating, it may seem a little underpowered compared to others, but it is sufficient for most older models.
Being a brand new alternator, you also get a lifetime warranty and a 2-year roadside assistance. It does have a lower amp rating than its other Bosch counterpart, though. But given its overall quality, this isn’t that big of an issue.
DB Electrical AFD0055 Alternator Replacement
Rebuilt alternators tend to be cheaper than brand new ones, and that is why some may be tempted to go for the rebuilt ones. The DB electrical AFD0055 alternator solves the problem and is cheaper than most rebuilt units.
It will fit the 1999-2001 Super Duty F250 F450 F550. It will be a direct replacement for the default alternators on these trucks. Meaning installation should be a breeze. It has an amperage of 110 amps and requires a voltage of 12 volts.
The green wire should have the same voltage as the orange battery wire. This can be a bit confusing for some people. But once its requirements are met, the alternator works flawlessly.
Bosch Automotive AL7606N 100% New Alternator
The Bosch automotive AL7806N is a 135 amp alternator that should be over the stock 7.3 Powerstroke alternator. This 7.3 Powerstroke high output alternator can fit into the 2004 to 2010 E-450 super duty, 2003 t0 2005 F-450 super duty, and 2003 to 2005 F550 super duty trucks.
We got readings of 14.29 volts at idle with its output, which is quite impressive. The electrical connections are welded, making it a more durable option. The brush springs are corrosion resistant, and the brushes are self-lubed.
Installation was easy enough, but it may require modification depending on the vehicle. Some users have reported installing this on other models, 2005 Excursion 6.0.
Powermaster 47768 Alternators
The Powermaster 47768 alternator is a little bit pricey compared to the other options on our list. So is it worth the extra cash? Firstly, this is a high amp alternator capable of churning out up to 14.3 volts.
It has an amp rating of 200 amps, which is incredibly high compared to some of the other options on the list. It is designed for late models of Ford trucks and should fit into 1994 to 2000 Ford 150 and Ranger.
It is worth noting, though, that you may have to change the belt in some models, which will be an extra cost on top of the alternator’s price. But overall, if you want an alternator with more power capacity than your average one, this will be an ideal option.
Bosch AL9963SB / 0124625044 New Alternator
As you may have noticed from our list, Bosch makes some of the best 7.3 Powerstroke alternator replacements on the market. And the Bosch AL9963SB is another one of the company’s excellent options.
This one is a little bit pricier than the other Bosch options on the list, though. Nevertheless, there is a lot to expect at its price, and it does deliver. It offers an output of 200 amps on the road and 120 amps while at idle.
It comes with Bosch’s 24 hours roadside protection assistance and is made to last for a very long time. Its price may be a bit high for some, but it is well worth it for those who decide to invest in one.
What To Check For Finding The Best 7.3 Powerstroke alternator
There are several things to consider when shopping for a 7.3 Powerstroke alternator. The main factors to consider are;
Amp rating
The 7.3 Powerstroke alternator output stands at around 130 amps, which is what you should be looking for when shopping for a replacement alternator. Of course, an alternator with a higher amp rating than 130 amps will be ideal.
However, a high amp rating translates to a higher price, with 200 amp alternators such as the Bosch AL9963SB costing upwards of $300. If you are looking for something more affordable, you can get good 140 amp options at below $200.
Vehicle compatibility
The alternator you decide to pick needs to be compatible with your vehicle model. So check the compatibility of the alternator. Sometimes, an alternator will be compatible with a model not listed on the online compatibility checker. So it is also wise to check the reviews to see if others have tried that particular alternator.
Durability
An alternator should last the lifetime of your vehicle. Therefore, a brand new alternator will be a better choice than a rebuilt model. Bosch makes very good alternators that last and other reputable brands such as DB electric.
Warranty
Like any other vehicle component, a warranty is essential. Most offer a 1 to 2-year warranty, which helps in case of any manufacturer defects. Also, check for the warranty period of an alternator.
Ease of installation
Installing a new alternator is a straightforward process. However, some alternators have design differences that make them challenging to install. This may also depend on the vehicle model. Some alternators may be easier to install on some models than others.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many amps is a 7.3 Powerstroke alternator?
The stock 7.3 Powerstroke alternator has an amps rating of about 130 amps but can max out up to 150 amps.
How many volts should a 7.3 alternator put out?
A stock 7.3 alternator will put out between 14 and 14.4 volts.
Is there a fuse for the alternator?
Yes, the alternator will typically have a high amperage fuse between its battery terminal and the battery.
How much horsepower does it take to run an alternator?
On average, an alternator will require 1Hp for 25 amps of power. At 100 amps, an alternator will need about 4 HP at full output.
Conclusion
While an alternator will typically last a vehicle’s lifetime, it is still prone to damage. As such, you may find yourself in need of a new alternator. There are many options on the market, and you cannot go wrong with any of the seven best alternator for 7.3 powerstroke reviewed above.
Last Updated on June 11, 2024 by Rifen