Most of our diesel engines have two batteries. One is usually the starting battery and the other is for all of the accessories. In hopes to lose as much weight as possible, we have removed the batteries and relocated one of them to the inside. With only one battery, we wanted to make sure we will still have plenty of power to turn the truck over. With the help of Sinister Diesel, we now have an alternator that will charge this battery better than before.

We also caught up with Brian George of Sinister Diesel to talk with him about these alternators and how important it is to make sure your truck doesn’t leave you on the road. “These high-output, 320 amp alternators we have not only offer great performance, but they also look great, too,” said George. “This alternator replaces an OEM replacement that is used and trusted by many diesel repair shops.”

These alternators have been doing so well actually that they have earned the “fix-all-solution” for the alternators that are commonly found in the 5.9-liter Cummins trucks. We were struggling with our old factory unit and once we saw these replacements, we knew this was this fix. Struggling to start, struggling to keep a charge, we knew we needed a fix.

When an alternator fails, it can cause other electronics to fail from low voltage. To ensure that doesn’t happen to this truck, we’re going to use this on our newly built engine. Sinister Diesel proudly uses the OEM alternator components such as the stator, rotor, rectifier, and the regulator to give their customers the peace of mind to match their standard of quality.

Some of the features and benefits of this unit are its lightweight, cast aluminum, powder coated chassis, upgraded high-output regulator, and high-temp, internal bearings. These alternators are also backed with a one-year warranty and are a direct fitment, no modifications needed replacement.

As for installation, it’s simple. For us, it was much easier as the engine was originally on an engine stand. Even with a truck in working form, it’s easy. Simply remove or loosen the belt off of the unit you’re replacing, remove the two mounting bolts and take the old unit out. With the new unit in hand, remount the new alternator in place with a bottom bolt, swing it up to connect the top bolt, and voila. All that remains is the reinstallation of the serpentine belt and the single plugin on the back and you’re ready to rock and roll.

With our new alternator fastened to the engine and the engine in place back in the truck, it was time to fire. We were a little concerned with the new fuel system having to prime and really crank to light the fire, but there was no issue at all. Ignition turned on, bumped the starter and in less than three seconds a fresh engine fired up faster than it ever has. Nothing has changed except the alternator so credit is due. These alternators mean business and will keep you charged.

Thankfully for us, we don’t have to worry about being left stranded with a dead battery at the track. For more information about these alternators, or to find out what Sinister Diesel has for your build, be sure and check out their website.