Ken, thanks for the pointer. I don't want to mount the alternator that high on the driver's side because that's where I plan to put the coolant expansion tank (the passenger's side is full with throttle body and intake). I plan on mounting the alternator close to the block and the compressor where the power steering pump is often placed (see picture).
While the brackets might be a challenge, I don't think I'll have a problem finding the right length belt. I have an 8-rib set up and if you look at the
Gates catalog they offer a bunch of shorter and 35 longer 8-rib belts with the longest being ~43" longer. If I had an 11 rib setup like the LS9, I'd have a big problem because they only offer a few lengths!
Another challenge is that the compressor has a 6-rib pulley which presents a challenge because the pulley is integrated with the clutch. CV Racing offers
this aftermarket 8 rib upgrade for $97.50, but it's a pain in the ass to install:
Another option would be to go with a SD 709 compressor which comes with an 8-rib pulley. However it has a 6k RPM limit as opposed the 9K limit with the one supplied in the kit. With a pulley ratio of 1.7 that would mean that the RPM window switch would cut the compressor off at 1,364 RPM which seems really low! If anyone has done the above upgrade or has other thoughts, let me know.
Mesa, I spoke with my engine builder and he mentioned that I could mount a 6 rib pulley on the damper and run the compressor and the alternator on it. That way I can keep my current belt and I could run a smaller diameter pulley to optimize the ratio for compressor speed. To your, point that might make it more challenging to get the engine in and out.