How long would i expect the alternator on my 95 corrolla to last? Is has 112K on it right now. Should I replace it now so i dont end up spending more to replace fried electronics when it does get screwy?
depends on what paces you are going to put it through. you will know when your alt is bad, because your car won't start. I don't fix it if it ain't broke, but if you're planning on entering some competitions, then start shopping now.. Just depends on what you want it to do..
I hope to install a full setup (head unit, 4 speakers, mono amp, subs, 4 channel amp<maybe>) Im doing it in steps though. First up...head unit(Alpine CDA-9856)...unless someone tells me about a better one(has to be iPod interface compatable).
big subs+big amp? or little subs+little amp? Head unit and amp for highs will not warrant a new alternator, but depending on how much power you're putting to the subs, you might need to go ahead and replace the alt (highly recommended if amp will be over 400 true watts rms.
I think im going to use an Alpine MRP-M650 400W RMS at 4 Ohms, but i might run it at 2 Ohms to get 600W RMS.
That's borderline, really. I'd install everything and pay close attention to see if the charging system can handle it. If you don't have an ammeter/voltmeter on your guage cluster, then pay particular attention to whether or not your lights dim on extended bass tones. (particularly tones around the frequency that you have your bass boost set at) This is where your amp will be drawing (and pulling) the most power. But I don't think that you'll ever hear anyone say that they would not recommend a high output alternator, there is not a scenario where this will hurt anything. Plus... they're getting less expensive everyday. Always a good addition to a system, just may not be necessary with that setup unless you notice a problem..
