TR6 1973 Tr6 alternator

[sundown]

Hi, I just got a remanufacture alternator my old has the 3 prong plug and a single wire that goes to a male terminal.This new one has the 3 prong but it does not a connection for that lone wire. What is that wire for a ground? Thanks

 

[TRopic6]

Aloha Sundown,

Justr leave it disconnected; whatever sensing it did will be done internally by the new alternator. I think the Lucas 18ACR alternators didn't have it.

Jeff

 

[sundown]

Thanks, will do.

 

[TR3driver]

I agree; but make sure the extra wire cannot make contact with anything. It's wired directly to the battery, no fuse.

 

[sundown]

Thanks for the great advice. Do you know what that wire is actually for? Thanks

 

[TR3driver]

Yes, it's known as the 'sense' input. It allows the voltage regulator inside the alternator to get a more accurate indication of battery voltage, without being fooled by the voltage drop through the main output wire. But many alternators just sense their own output and ignore the drop through the wiring, hence they don't have the 'sense' input.

The difference is small, usually unnoticeable. Mostly useful in cold weather, IMO, where starting takes a lot out of the battery and loads tend to be high (always running heater, lights, wipers). Without the sense input, it takes a bit longer to fully recharge the battery.

 

[sundown]

Thanks for the great explanation I feel much more comfortable now. I was concerned it not being connected it could result in overcharging .Thanks again.