Finding the right small block Chevy performance has a lot to do with the specific alternator you put inside. Choosing the wrong one can lead to electrical and power failures that you never want to happen while cruising down the road with your best friend by your side.
The history of the small block Chevy engine goes way back to 1955. This is when Chevrolet decided to redefine small block Chevy performance standards using a compact engine size that didn’t sacrifice powerful output. This design immediately hit it big with hot rodders and racers by introducing the idea of muscle cars and sports vehicles to hobbyists.
Affectionately called the “Mighty Mouse” of engines, you get a ton of power in your small block Chevy performance. You can trace many of today’s modern engine designs back to this often-overlooked component because of how capable it allowed drivers to go off the line.
A vital feature of the small block Chevy engine is the unique alternator. Finding the parts for this piece is not exactly a walk in the park. However, when you source your alternators from our team at Rod & Custom Motorsports, you get plenty of benefits we’ll list below.
Optimal Charging Performance
Any alternator you choose needs to match the manufacturer’s (in this case Chevy) charging goals. That balance point between performance and power is crucial to not only your ignition system, but all the various specialized accessories you may have retrofitted into your hotrod. That keeps the battery well charged so you can take a long trip or quick jaunt around the block.
Improved Fuel Efficiency
Owning a custom car doesn’t usually mean high fuel efficiency. That is better suited to your day-to-day car and not the one you keep under a tarp in the garage. However, you do want the fuel efficiency to be optimal for your specific model. It’s a bit of a drag when your alternator isn’t aligned well with your engine, and you have to keep an extra 5-10 gallons on hand, just in case.
Enhanced Electrical System Reliability
The electrical system in an older Chevy tends to not be as complex as today. That being said, there are certain components you want to keep running at all times. Part of the small block Chevy performance you need is an alternator that can effectively charge the battery and various other items you need when you want them most. For example, blasting the stereo as you zoom around a racetrack corner.
Extended Alternator Life
Small block engines use way less metal than big block or modern engines. That means less weight you have to manage. The right alternator that fits into this system lowers the wear and tear on both the alternator itself, and the rest of the components attached to the engine. Remember, there is only so much space for this combination so you want to use quality parts to ensure longevity.
Choosing the Right Alternator
When you’re browsing for the right small block Chevy performance alternator that gives you all the power you want and manages the appropriate electrical load level, be sure to consider a few requirements. Consider the car’s operating environment and any accessories or modifications you may have added, and consult a professional team well acquainted with the unique features of a Chevy small block engine.
That is where we can help. For decades, our professional staff at Rod & Custom Motorsport have been helping collectors and enthusiasts just like you find the best-fit parts for all kinds of vehicles. We can advise you on the small block Chevy performance you are seeking by suggesting parts that match your engine size and driving environment. Give us a call today, and let’s find out which part you need!