Just a question, I'm just wondering if there is a lighter weight alternator for the Mirage? Just curious guys. Wondering if I could save some more weight. From what I have researched, the OEM is the best I can get for now. Thank you!
Just a question, I'm just wondering if there is a lighter weight alternator for the Mirage? Just curious guys. Wondering if I could save some more weight. From what I have researched, the OEM is the best I can get for now. Thank you!
Given that Mitsubishi went to great effort and expense to make this car as light as possible, I don't think it's very likely that they fitted an alternator that's any larger than it needs to be. And modern alternators are already designed to be as efficient as possible with aluminum cases and all that.
Unless there's a lower output alternator available and you think you could get by with it (like, you don't have or use a lot of accessories that draw power, never drive at night or in the rain, etc.), I don't think you'll find anything lighter.
Does the 1.0 Mirage engine use a smaller alternator? Maybe some of the 600cc Kei cars?
When I was looking to lighten a Miata alternator, I was able to fit one from a Geo Metro, I believe.
Mitsu probably has this base covered, too... but on the Miata, particularly the early Miata, there were a lot of heavy brackets that could be replaced with lighter parts. Like the alternator bracket. But, also the AC bracket that was CAST IRON on the early cars, and cast aluminum on the later cars. And the AC compressor itself was a lot smaller/lighter on the newer cars. As was the starter.
I don't think there's a lot of "low hanging fruit" of that variety on the Mirage.
Simplify and add lightness.
Doesn't the Mirage ECU control the alternator performance? If so, the programming is for an alternator of a specific capacity. Reducing that might lead to a damaged undersized replacement if the ECU ever calls for maximum output?
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View my fuel log 2015 Mirage ES 1.2 manual: 49.6 mpg (US) ... 21.1 km/L ... 4.7 L/100 km ... 59.5 mpg (Imp)
Fummins (05-07-2020)
How about starting with a lighter battery? If you don't live in a really cold climate, you can run these in a daily driver.
Braille Advanced AGM Lightweight Racing Batteries
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View my fuel log 2015 Mirage ES 1.2 manual: 52.2 mpg (US) ... 22.2 km/L ... 4.5 L/100 km ... 62.6 mpg (Imp)
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View my fuel log 2015 Mirage ES 1.2 manual: 49.6 mpg (US) ... 21.1 km/L ... 4.7 L/100 km ... 59.5 mpg (Imp)
Fummins (05-05-2020)
I'm still running a $35 motorcycle battery.
https://mirageforum.com/forum/showth...attery-Project
As long as you don't need cold winter starting, don't have any stray current drains, and drive the car every week or so... seems to work just fine.
Simplify and add lightness.
Top_Fuel (05-05-2020)
Thanks for the reply. I just wanted to see what ideas were out there
I appreciate the response. Here is pictures of my engine bay. I'm using a 11.5 Braille Battery. Custom made my battery mount out of aluminum peices made from aluminum gutter downspout and titanium bolts.
Mirageman38 (05-07-2020)