mich7thm

Good day All…

I am new here and I am in the early stages of researching a project…

I want to purchase a used Express 3500 to convert to a camper van (2003-2010)… I have been advised by the Van Conversion specialist to purchase one with the 220 amp generator… I know of a really nice low mileage 3500 van with most of the options that I want but it has a 145 amp alternator.

I’m thinking there is more to upgrading the 145 amp alternator than just swapping out the 145 amp for the 220 amp… there is the wiring harness and cables and possible sensors which I think would be affected… I had visited a couple of Chevrolet Dealers today but since its Saturday I could not get any definite answers.

Does anybody done this before..? and how much of a project would it be to CORRECTLY upgrade the 145 amp electrical system to the 220 AMP electrical system?

Thank you.

StanVan

As a former parts guy(not Chevy, but hear me out) I would check out the particular year of the one you're looking at, and see if there are any other differences, other than the alternator itself. I could be wrong, but these usually have the regulator built in these days. And I'd guess the rest of the system is built to accept either one. It doesn't make economic sense to need a different ECM to upgrade an alternator.

I did swap one out on my first van, a '74. I went from a 45 to a 60 amp, and needed nothing else. Probably not the experience you're looking for.

StanVan

And another thing. In using a GM alternator, your only advantage may have an effect on a warranty, but you can save some money and get it locally, from a shop the rebuilds them. I went to a dealer once, and thought I'd be getting a Delco, but gat a local one instead. And got charged double if I'd have just gone to the local place and did it myself. I was not happy.

Just sayin'.

mich7thm

Thanks Stan...

I hear you on the manufacturer vs local rebuild... Electrical components can be/are a real &#$@!...

I can't help but to think of all the times I had done my own auto and truck repairs when something could have been easy or at least not too difficult but the manufacturer made multiple versions of the replacement part and it just caused a big pain in the @$#&! So we will see...

I just watched a pretty good video on YouTube from "Advanced RV" upgrading an alternator... Technology is speeding by... There replacement had a dynamic tork converter to help smooth out the system... So maybe an aftermarket may be a good idea... I really think I need to discuss things more in detail with my builder on this...

Any how I'm pretty excited about my project...

Thank you.

Mike

StanVan

I think I can speak for at least a few of us here, and we'd like to hear more about your project as it unfolds.

StanVan

Rock Auto has the 220 AC Delco for $278.79, that fits my '16. It may be the same for whatever year you end up with.

Artie1

I'm just curious what kind of usage will a van see that the stock alternator won't be enough? I get that Duramax ambulance vans come with dual alternator set-up, but I can understand it is being necessary. Have you been in a situation where yes, a 220A would have made a difference that day?.

mich7thm

Hello Artie:

I am planning a Camper Van Conversion to self contained Class "B"... The 220 amp generator will be used to recharge the 2nd battery, a deep cycle marine which will be used to power the living quarters of the van... which is common place for this application...

I may also decide to incorporate solar power as an option at some point... which is also common place for this application...

Mike