I'm looking to replace my alternator. I have the original Mando 51A version that is still miraculously functioning in its 30th year and past 1000 hours. I don't need an upgrade. The 51A version works just fine for the way we use our boat, which is mostly day sailing and when cruising it's from marina to marina. We spend almost no time at anchor. I'm looking for as close to "plug and play" as I can find. Has anyone been through this process recently and have a model that they recommend?
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Jim Gibbons
S/V Just Add H2O #1503
Chicago-Lake Michigan
1995 C-36 MKII TR/SK M35AC
Hi,
We also have the original alternator in our M35, that is now 33 years old! What We have done, and you might consider, is take it to an electrical workshop and ask to revise and rebuilt what needed. It took about two days to have a fully, like new, alternator revised. Bearings, brushes were replaced, cleaned and that's all.
We have sail a lot, and founded that the original alternator plus our solar panel are enough for our electrical consumption.
You might also consider at the time, to revise your starter engine, we took it at the same workshop to found that change of brushes, bearings, were also needed.
Just a thought.
Eladio Vallina
C-36 TR EUREKA II
Hull 1122 (1991)
Home port Barcelona (Spain).
Here is my story of my alternator and replacement with part number
https://mei1970.org/saillavie/alternator_bracket
Sail La Vie 1999 Catalina 36 MKII, M35B-17031, Coyote Point, San Mateo, CA
About Sail La Vie
Before cruising south I purchased a spare alternator that appears to be a direct replacement for the original Mando 51 amp model. It is an Arco 60050, comes with the single groove pulley.
THe Arco company in Florida will answer any questions, I purchased from Hodges Marine last season - good customer service, they will take returns if needed.
Hodges Marine Arco 60050
Denis
Brazen Article #1925
2001 Catalina 36 MKII