Tacoma PreRunner Alternator swap: 100amp to 130amp ok?

First time posting to this forum. Hopefully I'm not duplicating an existing question, but I searched and couldn't find a straight answer to my specific question.

I have a 2009 PreRunner(2WD 6cyl) It's getting older, so parts are starting to wear down bit by bit.
Alternator is bad. I tested at local Autozone as having a bad regulator, although I don't know if there's more to it than that. They said it's output was around 12.3 but said normal would be up around 13-14 approximately(just going off memory, next exact figures)

Battery tests fine, but obviously isn't charging while driving, and my battery indicator light is on.

I want to swap out my stock 100amp alternator, and the shop has a better price for the 130amp. 130amp looks like it's recommended for trucks with the stock towing package, which I'm pretty sure I do not have.

So my question, can I do a straight swap of the cheaper 130amp unit to replace the 100amp stock unit? Or would that also require an upgrade to wiring/fuses/etc. since I don't have the towing package?

I'm obviously a novice, but like to do minor repairs whenever possible to save a little $$$, but I also don't want end up costing myself a bunch of new problems by saving a few bucks on a part. thanks for any advice!

 

Should be fine but i believe you will need to replace the alternator fuse to a 130 amp as well. will require pulling the fuse box apart as they are bolted to the wires inside the box. Im not sure about the gauge of the wires if there is a difference with the 100 to 130 but i do not think Toyota would make separate harnesses just because of an alternator difference.

 

@HomerTaco

Any opinion on this?

 

Not sure why you'd ask me... I'm not much of an electrical guy...

My understanding is that there's nothing wrong with a slightly higher output alternator.

@6 gearT444E
No issues here right?

 

You're right. I got my names crossed. Sorry bud. I meant to tag @BamaToy1997 Although he hasn't been on since May.

 

Don't think hes a reliable source for info anymore due to inactivity. I tagged another member who'd know.

 

Yes it’s ok, I do it with some of my customers Tacoma’s (install the higher amp alternator) and will be doing the same on mine when it starts to go out. Not necessary unless you’re running aftermarket accessories like subs and lights and onboard air

 

I’ve never had to replace the alternator fuse to run the slightly higher amp alternator on any tacos

 

And @2009TacoMan at least here in Houston at my shop the 130amp alternators are a little cheaper than the 100amp price wise

 

What about going to a larger 200+ amp alternator? Will I need to use a larger fuse? I'm looking to upgrade my 130 since I have a stereo and lights.

 

You will need to up the fuse amperage for that big of a jump but the computer is what will call for a specified charging output.

I still have my 100amp alternator, I’m running aftermarket screen and subs with an 1100 watt amp, 4 lights in the rear and 3 lights in the front. Haven’t had any issues although I will jump to the 130amp soon and an optima yellow top which is for a bunch of aftermarket accessories. The red top is only a step up from your standard battery.

 

Thanks everybody for the feedback. I made the swap yesterday. Haven't changed out the fuse yet, and plan to when I get back to the shop, but so far so good. Seems to have been a pretty seamless upgrade. Will update again if I run into issues.

Also, the reason for the upgrade wasn't to power more accessories, but rather to save some $$. The 130amp unit was around $133 and the more common 100amp unit was around $153. Not a huge savings, but every little bit helps.

 

As long as the electrical loads on your truck have not increased the lower fuse is better

If you have a problem the faster it opens better off you are .

 

None I would be aware of

I would not bother to replace that fusible link, the extra amperage is for the larger alternator used for the towing package. If you aren't adding an aftermarket brake controller or 7 pin with charging port in the rear hitch, just leave the existing fuse installed (I believe they are a 20 amp delta). To add aftermarket larger circuits such as amplifiers and lights and whatnot; that current does not go through the truck wiring you will run a dedicated wire that is separately fused appropriate for that load.

This ^^^^. The best thing you could do is to start the truck and power on all of your lights and accessories then measure the current draw on the alternator. I think you will find it is well below any value that would require changing that size.

 

Agreed if your not using more amperage just leave it.