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Up-date to Alternator ???

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George Zeck

George Zeck

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Update to Alternator ???

I am in process of changing the car to "negative ground" and would like any & all comments if I should change the generator to an alternator. I admit that I am "green on this" -- only listened to a few posts and really would like to know the advantage of making such a change. Doing many repairs / upgrades / updates to the car and just working on a "giant list" of "to-do's".

Specifically -- any links out there on "how to" and what model alternator should I use would be great.

Tx-

George Zeck
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Re: Update to Alternator ???

There are two reasons to consider this upgrade: reliability and added capacity. If you plan on adding hallogen lamps, stereo, air conditioning (ha) or any other electrical accessories, an alternator will provide the charging capacity to deal with the additional watts consumed.

An alternator will be more reliable than your well used generator. You could take your generator to a rebuilder and have it rebuilt to improve its reliability, but you would most likely pay more than for the alternator and you would have the same limited charging capacity you had before you spent the money.

My "boy racer" Mini has a chrome 100A GM 1 wire installed in it, while the AH3000 and the A30 both have a generator. The generator adds to the originality of the cars, so I won't be changing them out. The Mini came to me some what modified, so I have felt free to upgrade with 400 Watts of stereo, 10 disk CD changer, halogen lighting and a chrome alternator.

If you shop around you can locate a 3 wire lucas generator that will fit that 1275. It will provide improved output, fit your engine compartment and keep the generator indicator in your dash working.
 
Re: Update to Alternator ???

I used a Delco alternatior on mine. internal voltage regulator. It is a one wire setup. but I also use the small sender wire so the alt light on the dash will come on if there are any problems. run at about 14.5 volts to the battery. you will need thisif you use an electronic egn.

I think you can see in this picture. This is a befor pic so don't look at the wiring it is all redone now.



Carl
 

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Re: Update to Alternator ???

I wrote a tech article on modern alternator conversions some years ago.
https://members.tripod.com/PDLJMPR/techin.htm#Alternator
I use a small Jap alternator because it is about the same diameter as the original generator and about 2/3rds as long so it looks like it belongs there.
The GM alternator will work too but it's 1/2 the size of the engine and just looks way too big. (in my opinion)
From the time I wrote that tech tip, I have found the Ford Festiva or Mazda 323 alternator to work just fine, and it's very small so it looks correct.
Most any modern alternator will work as long as the forward mounting ears are 180* across. You can rework your regulator and use it as a junction box so it's still there for looks too.
I get junk yard alternators for around $30.

Frank
 
Re: Update to Alternator ???

I guess I am missing the point -- I appreciate the help here, but am confused about "small Mitsubshi alt" and "Delco alt". Don't I need a specific car / model / etc ???

I don't suppose I am going to walk into my local auto parts store and request a "Delco Alt" -- am I ??

I just assume that I will get that glazed over approach from the clerk. Could anyone please provide more specifics.

Thanks --

Geo Zeck
 
Re: Update to Alternator ???

As Frank mentioned, A mazda 323 might be a good altenator donor. Like a 1993 model or so. Go to a junk yard and get a cheap used one. If it fails, it will still be good to use as a core. Many people use the GM altenator because it is cheap and almost always in stock at the local autoparts store. But, as Frank notes: It's "hugantic".
 
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