Choosing an alternator

The factory alternator on these trucks is typically rated between 100 and 145 amps. That is fine for stock electrical loads and runs short once you add an amplifier, a winch, a light bar, or an auxiliary battery.

Mechman builds direct-fit high output alternators for this platform from 170 amps up to 400 amps. The alternator bolts into the factory location and uses the factory plug, so no bracket modification is needed. Higher output does not force more current through your electrical system; it simply makes more available when the system asks for it.

Output at idle matters more than peak rating for most car audio builds, since that is where a stock alternator falls furthest behind. Cast housings suit daily drivers and work trucks. Billet and anodized finishes are available in black, red, blue, green, orange, gold, purple and more for show and competition builds.

Choosing a battery

These trucks use side-post terminals and a Group 78 or Group 75 tray. The XS Power battery packages listed here include the correct terminal adapter for a side-post fitment, so the battery drops in without improvising a connection.

AGM handles the deep cycling of a high-demand audio system far better than a standard flooded starting battery, and it can be mounted in positions a flooded battery cannot take.

Don't skip the wiring

A 400 amp alternator cannot deliver what the cable between it and the battery will carry. Factory cable on these trucks was sized for a factory alternator. Upgrading the three main runs is usually the highest-value change on the whole build. See our Big 3 wiring upgrade guide and Big 3 kits.

Browse all Mechman high output alternators, batteries, or cable and wire.