TR2/3/3A C40 dynamo terminal identification

[RC64]

I'm about finished with the installation of a new wiring harness on my TR-3A restoration. The dynamo is a C40, but I'm unable to see the "F" and "D" terminal labels on the rear of the case. It seems logical that the heavier gauge yellow wire would go to the larger spade terminal with the lighter gauge yellow / green wire routed to the smaller spade. The harness has the old ring terminals which, from what I've been reading, would probably be compatible with the older C39 dynamo. I have a larger spade terminal that will fit.

Since "logic" doesn't always "rule", would someone be kind enough to confirm my suspicion.

Rick...

 

[TR3driver]

Yup, exactly right.

Lucas claims you need to use the later control box with the C40 as well; but I don't see why the earlier one wouldn't work. You just won't get the advantage of the higher current rating.

 

[RC64]

Randall...

It's good to know that my assumption is correct.

I was going to try the electronic conversion for the control box, but finally decided to keep it "original" with a new RB106. While browsing the Lucas Service Manual pdf I concluded that it should be okay with the C40. It's a bit vague, but as you mentioned it seems like it should work. I've come across several of the Lucas manuals which have been added to my library. Is there one in particular that you find most useful?

Rick...

 

[TR3driver]

I was going to try the electronic conversion for the control box, but finally decided to keep it "original" with a new RB106.

RB106 (actually probably RB106/2) is just a model number. Like most Lucas components, it has many different part numbers with different specifications. So, for example, TR3A with the C39 generator should have control box 37182A through 37182H (which are equivalent but have slightly different internal parts) while later cars with the C40 generator should have 37283D or 37290D. All of them are model RB106/2, but the resistances are slightly different and (I believe) the number of turns on the regulator coils are different.

I've come across several of the Lucas manuals which have been added to my library. Is there one in particular that you find most useful?.

Well, the one I recommend most often to others is definitely the Generator and Control Box Tests booklet
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2...NDNmLWI0YTYtNjY5ZjQxZTA2NGFm/edit?usp=sharing

But the one I spend the most time poring over is the Master Parts catalog 400E
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2...YWQzLWI4ZWYtYjEyM2YxODNkZGUx/edit?usp=sharing

Of course, your mileage may vary as they say. Electricity has been a hobby of mine for an absurd number of years, so I don't need much help with troubleshooting and such. Others may need more help with such things.

 

[RC64]

Randall...

I have come to depend on the parts catalog regularly. I downloaded the other Lucas reference you gave me and I'm sure that it will keep me occupied learning about the care and handling of my generator system.

With the control box numbers you mentioned I was able to find quite a bit of information on the various options. I checked the old control box and it was labeled ( I never noticed it before) as a 87182M. The new one isn't marked. I talked to the tech at the supplier and although he didn't have a specific identifier he said that they have shipped plenty of them and haven't had any complaints. We talked about using it with a C40 and he said exactly when you did. It ought to work fine, but I may not benefit from a slightly higher current potential. I'm comfortable with that.

Thanks for all the info.

Rick...