I am considering installing a 100 amp alternator on our 34 MKII # 1456, which has the Westerbeke M35A motor. Balmar says I should be driving the alternator with a half inch belt. A check with Westerbeke and Kubota came up negative as far as availability of a half inch replacement for the 3/8 inch pulleys that are currently on the engine and water pump. Anybody out there know of a source for appropriate pulleys? I doubt that we are the first one to be doing this upgrade.
I have hull # 1430 and had a balmar 100 amp installed over three years ago. I also checked with everyone and received conflicting answers. I stayed with the original size belt and have had no problems. I have a M35BC engine, I would double check yours, as I don't think they were installing M35A's from my hull forward.
Dick Beecham
Refuge
C34 - #1430
Rock Hall, MD
rbeecham@jersey.net
I have a 100 amp. alternator from the Battery Shack. I was not instructed to use a larger belt, nor have I installed one. The alternator takes the standard belt that came with the engine and I have had no difficulties.
Perhaps some other manufacturers should be consulted. Balmar is not the only manufacturer of high amp. alternators.
Jim Kane