I just bought a 400W inverter and it got me thinking about power options down the road. Here's a few questions:

1) Is there a rebuild kit for the alternator? My pre-taco alternator died around 150k miles and I have 130K on the T. Thinking about rebuilding before it goes.
2) Is there a high output alternator available for the T? I believe the stock alternator puts out 50-75A.
3) Thinking about installing a larger battery with deep cycle capability. Has anyone done this and are there any hints/pictures?

I have a 3.4L '97 4x4 with an automatic. I plan on putting a cigarette lighter outlet in the bed and in the cab that doesn't shut down with the ignition and a setup for the inverter in the bed close to one of my cap windows.

Thanks!

Let's see...

1. - I imagine there probably is, but I'm not 100% sure...

2. - Yes... Stock output is 65-85amps - too weak IMO. Take a look on Ebay - you can usually find the 110-130amp units for the 5vzfe. Also, if you want the max power & don't mind spending some coin you can take a look at NWOR's 160amp unit (I'm happy with it, but it was close to $500) or PowerMaster (alternators associated with their welding equipment).

3. - Optima... I run the blue top deep cycle (just 'cause I wanted the extra set of posts). Only thing is I had to make some slack in the positive lead (cut a couple zip ties to loosen it up) & bend the top support bracket down about .5" (the Optima's are shorter than OEM). Nothing to it. I can take a couple pics for you if want - PM me an email addy...

Good idea for the inverter, but is 400w enough? What do you plan on running on it? May want to think about returning it & getting a bigger one if you want to run a blender/hairdryer size item. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

The only thing bad about the inverters is that they put out a lot of radiated noise, esp. in the entertainment radio bands. Really screws up the AM and the FM to a lesser degree. Also depends how close to the antenna it is and how much gets radiated off the power cables up to it. Just an FYI.

I suppose the key is to turn it off when you don't need it. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

I'll look around for the 135A unit on E-bay. Didn't know they sold such an animal. I think the $500 ones are a little much for what I need.

I have a remote piece of property with no electricity and just need to power a few small items. I would also like to power a small fan for cooling the dog in the summer. The D-cell battery fans are junk. I plan on running some heavy wire (with a fuse at the battery) to the bed and making a sort of power panel. That way I could use the inverter off of a cigarette lighter socket for small things or direct for larger items. If I upgrade to a larger inverter I have the wiring done already.

Thanks for the suggestions. Still haven't found a rebuild kit in my searches.

I have a 1000watt inverter under the seat and could use a new alternator also. Although so far I have not had any problems with the stock one. Mostly run a microwave or some power tools if needed. I have a procomp yellowtop with top and side posts. I lloked at the series 31 optima but I think its too tall to fit. Depends on if the measurments they give are to the top of the battery or the top of the posts