[nomaspescado]

Hello,
My alternator is just about shot and it is time to replace and upgrade at the same time. The idiot light just came on permanently tonight after it has only been coming on when starting in freezing weather, defrost on full..
I will be running upgraded headlights, fog lights, upgraded wiring and a stereo (nothing ridiculous) in the near future when I have time to install.
I have purchased upgraded battery mains and an Optima battery.
As for the problem alternator, what would you recommend?
I cannot afford a Mean Green, but wish to install one that has a lifetime warranty or is at least a solid, quality unit. $200 range is OK as I don't wish to purchase another one any time soon thereafter. I'm looking for a direct bolt on, minimal fuss.
It is a 1998 Cherokee, 4.0l with the regular spark plug wires, etc.
Thank you for time and any advice,
Steve

[XJING]

Every decent sized city has at least one place that all they do is rebuild alternators. Take yours in and talk to them about what demands you are placing on your electrical and they can "spool up" your alternator to meet and exceed those demands. Mine came with a warenty. It will cost less than 200 and you will have an upgrade that you know fits and a shop thats local to deal with and more than enough to juice to keep all your junk up to snuff.

[Ivanito]

I found a 98 zj one that worked well for me.

[Whobeme]

Here's a good write up for what you are asking about. I was looking at doing this a couple weeks back.

http://www.bc4x4.com/tech/2004/jeepalt/

[nomaspescado]

Thanks for the feedback, guys.
The option of looking into a local shop to respool will addressed this week when I find time.
The write up was an interesting read and has me thinking of new ideas.
And, about the 98ZJ Alt., does it bolt right in or require any mods? Also, could you tell me what the output is? I have to assume that it would be an upgrade in output for heavier applications and would give the option of looking into many sources for aquiring.
Thanks, all.
PS. Does anyone have any experience with this one from Alterstart?
http://verizonsupersite.com/4alterst...e&catuid=10013
Cheers

[Ivanito]

The zj is 136amp and it bolts straight up. Make sure you keep the belt on the outermost grooves. Also, you will need to swap over the plastic piece on the back, but otherwise, it is just like a normal alternator swap.

[nomaspescado]

Thanks for your help!

[Jeds Sr.]

I don't think all of the 98 models are 136 amp, I believe some are 112 amp. I just got one from the junk yard (it come out of a 98 model Dodge but they are the same thing) and you need to make sure the number on the tag is 56027913.

[Ivanito]

If it is out of a zj 5.2 it will be.