Hey folks, I got a 94 SL2 DOHC and I've tested the alternator and found it needs replacing. I've noticed 96 amp and 105 amp versions available. Looking at all the threads on electrical it seems these saturns can be finicky. Which one would work best? I don't have an amp or anything so the extra 11 amps aren't really necessary. I generally would go higher but thought I'd get some feedback first.

Also, does anyone know how much tension the belt tensioner should hold? is there a torque in lbs. or Nm to look for? I'd like to check it with something more than feeling the belt for deflection.
thanks for your time.

well i think halfway through 94 they changed the alternators then there was a change in 97 or 98. im not for sure.

i guess it depends on the manufacture date on your car. i think the lower amperage one is the 1st design, then the higher was the 2nd design.

oh yeah and about the tensioner, if it feels like it has a good spring retension when you pull back on it, then its fine. if it feels a bit weak or doesnt fully spring back quick, then its bad. feeling the belt for deflection doesnt always work, because the belt could be stretched.

91-94 used a 85 amp alternator
95-97 used a 96 amp
98-02 used a 90 amp

the 80 amp and 96 amp alternators, as well as the 105 amp used in some other GMs(such as my buick) are all part of the CS-130 line of alternators, and are interchangible. the later 90 amp alternator i beleave is of the CS-121 line, very simular, but with a internal cooling fan. it can be used on earlyer saturns with a slight change in wiring(different connectiors)

belt tension should be between 45 and 65 lbs, if you can find a belt tension gauge to check it with

91-94 use a 85 amp part number 21025859
95-97 use a 96 amp part number 21025307
98-02 use a 90 amp part number 21024485
some 1997 models use a 90 amp also depends on the last eight of the VIN which is part number 21024726

I had mine rebuilt for $30 at the local alt shop. Good luck with yours.