Author Topic: 55 amp Alternator & double v-belts  (Read 2925 times)

awolff280sl

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55 amp Alternator & double v-belts
« on: September 09, 2015, 12:57:11 »
In the workshop manual for the 280SL, in section 23-2 re: tensioning of V-belts, there is a subsection on V-Belts for 55 Amp. Generator. This applies to other models that were originally equipped with a 55 amp alternator. In this subsection, mention is made of a second water pump-alternator belt. This is in addition to the long crankshaft-alternator-water pump belt.
Some of us W113 owners have replaced the original 35 amp alternator with a 55 amp, and looking through the forum there has not been any mention of using an additional belt.
Does anyone know the purpose of this 2nd alternator belt?
FWIW, I am using a 55 amp internally regulated alternator on a single crankshaft-alternator-water pump belt. I have seen that my alternator usually puts out an average of about 13.4 volts (13.2-13.6).
Andy   Sarasota, FL
'69 280SL 4speed
'06 Mitsubishi Evo

Cees Klumper

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Re: 55 amp Alternator & double v-belts
« Reply #1 on: September 09, 2015, 19:13:31 »
Not an answer, but two follow-on questions: why move to a 55 amp alternator, and does that require a different battery to function properly?
Cees Klumper
1969 Mercedes 280 SL automatic
1968 Ford Mustang 302 V8
1961 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Coupe 1600
1962 FIAT 1500S OSCA convertible
1972 Lancia Fulvia Coupe 1.3
1983 Porsche 944 2.5
1990 Ford Bronco II

awolff280sl

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Re: 55 amp Alternator & double v-belts
« Reply #2 on: September 09, 2015, 23:41:13 »
Cees, 55amps in my car is not entirely necessary. It would be needed with a monster sound system. I put it in when I re-did my water pump, A/C, etc. because I was there.
I don't need a different battery.
Andy   Sarasota, FL
'69 280SL 4speed
'06 Mitsubishi Evo

Naj ✝︎

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Re: 55 amp Alternator & double v-belts
« Reply #3 on: September 10, 2015, 08:47:39 »
When I bought a 55a alternator for my Pagoda, it came with a double belt pulley of much smaller dia. I just swapped the pulley from the displaced alternator. I do not think you need the double pulley.
I fitted a 70a alternator on another Pagoda with a single pulley. The belt chirps every time after start up.

Naj
68 280SL