So looking through the Haynes manual, it says there are two types of Alterntors that were used for my year of Mini (1978)--either a Lucas 11AC or a 16ACR, getting 43 and 34 amps respectively.

I'm looking to change the alternator--but I don't know which type I have. Any ideas on how I can figure that out?

~Cas

 

Just went thru this on mine

question is are you trying to maintain 100% authenticity to your original?

If not (as I was) just get the biggest alt that's authentic but fits!

& I'll bet dollars to donuts that either will fit fine...

 

there's only two things that I would worry about.
1. Getting the wrong alternator and underpowering or overpowering the system.

and

2. Getting the wrong one and figuring out that it doesn't fit.

Just want to get it right the first time.

 

Replace the alternator with a hi output Saturn alternator

http://www.minimania.com/web/threadi.../msgthread.cfm


http://www.teglerizer.com/alternator/index.html

or a Bosch 13107 55A from a 78-80 Ford Fiesta (I did this-simple bolt on, change a couple wires)

http://www.cibolas7.net/17901.html

these are cheap and available everywhere......all have better output for your Mini than Lucas so you can run stereos, lights etc.....

 

If in doubt call MiniMania or Seven ... I did when I smoked my alternator a few months ago (the bearings crapped out and it seized - 50 miles from home - oh my)

So far as size I'm no expert but sp long as you ensure you have 12 volts and neg ground as your 78 does I don't believe the larger amp output can hurt you. This just means the max output it can provide ... you'll draw what you draw...it an't over fill so to say. The advantage of going to the larger is that the smaller really has just enough amps for the basic car... If you want to add a bit more radio umph, or some fog lites etc etc, you're gonna need more amps....if you don't, wierd things are gonna start happening (if you add stuff).

My recommendation - what I did - get the larger one (or the saturn...)

 

Lucas simply does not make a suitable wattage alternator for todays accesories. If I did it over I go for the 100A+ conversion as my lights drag the 55W down...

 

that's a beauty!

thanx for the info guys

 

i went with a Delco alt. out of a Chevy and it is dead easy swap