How many amps is the alternator on my 01 3.4L Tacoma? Part # is 27060-62160. It doesn't say what the output is anywhere on the alternator.

The 03 FSM says the V6 alt it is only 60 amps??? The top of my fuse box says "ALT 120 A", but I'm thinking that it would be "too good to be true" that it's a 120 amp alt. Is there a test I could run with a DMM?

BTW the same FSM says the 4 cyl alt is 70 amp, why would the 4cyl alt be higher output than the V6?

 

This reference says 80amp, but I don't think so...You won't be able to test with a DMM, there will be way too much current and it'll blow the fuse in the DMM (or possibly the meter itself).

Hit up a Schuck's, AutoZone, etc and they should be able to test it for you. The meter they use is setup with a "shunt" which puts a known load on the alternator, measures the voltage drop, then computes the current.

 

[QUOTE=midiwall]This reference says 80amp, but I don't think so...
[QUOTE]

Thanks Mark, but why don't you think so? That would have been about what I would have guessed. I think I will try Autozone and see what they say.

 

I think I know that mine stock was 60, and the 3.0's were 70 (like you had said). 80 just doesn't seem like the right number... dunno either.

 

Mine and every one I have ever had the pleasure of benching were all 60amp.

 

From experience, those tests aren't always accurate. Things like weather, temperature, etc., will affect the reading. If it's hot out, you're gonna get a lower reading. Also keep in mind that some alts were rated based on a certain spot on the RPM band, and most likely the guy at AutoZone isn't gonna tell you to rev over 2k.

Just my .02 to keep you from getting confused if you do happen to notice strange results.