im thinking a little in the future here but i will need to create more space on the drivers side of the engine, so what alternative are open to replacing my std pinto alternator, ideally looking for a small compact unit that uses a lucas plug (but i can always change the plug.

ericlipski1 on ebay ask him about the kitcar altinators he was selling tiny ones the size of a cup

Bedford Rascal alternators seem to be popular.

Any of the small denso alternators are a good way to go