How do I wire the alternator, can I still use the og voltage regulator. The regulator only has 3 wires coming out of it and the only other vehicle I have had a 4 wire regulator to look at.
Can you take a picture of the back of the alternator that you want to use? If it is a 10SI, or 12SI, it as an internal regulator, so no other regulator is required.
This is the conversion diagram from generator to 10SI (small case) or 12SI(large case). Both of those alternators have the same wiring connections. Those alternators look like this: The 12SI is identical in appearance, just enlarged in diameter a bit. An externally regulated GM alternator is an 10DN, and looks like this: If you really, really want an 10DN, and a functional regulator, this is the wiring diagram: Be aware, 10DN alternators, in virtually all stock configurations are very low-output alternators, by today's standards.
You can’t use the generator regulator for an alternator...if you want...you can leave it in place and tie the output of the alternator into the original vehicle wiring so things function and look original by using the old regulator as a junction block. Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
The internal functions of a generator regulator will not operate an alternator... Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
I know that, and there is little point in installing a 37A alternator, of any kind, on any vehicle, when it is more work, and more expensive to do so.
True, but the choices of good performing alternators has never been better and a lot depends on the desires and thought pattern of the builder...is the car going to be bone stock...if so why change to an alternator? If it’s going full street rod...well then this would be the time to think of loads...electric cooling fan, big stereo system, air bags...etc. Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
It has a 454 with HEI in it, he needs at least 55A of alternator.... I like gimpy's explanation. although I have one of those early alternators with the external regulator in a car I drive and race a lot. It doesn't have any power accessories, nor HEI, so it does just fine. And looks like 1966.
The early Delco DN alternator series was good, almost built-proof alternator and was one unit that could be modified in a large variety of ways including upping the amperage to 80 amps with some part swaps. They even made a piggy-back regulator that turned the alternator into a one-wire self excited unit. We also used that unit to make a 6v positive ground alternator for early T-Birds and Model A’s. Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
As the others said, if you plan to use an "external regulator" you have to have an external regulator for an alternator. The one for the generator won't work. I've got one diagram here that shows leaving the generator regulator in place and wiring up a 10 or 12 SI internal regulator alternator that might help The regulator just serves as a bus bar that way. https://s173.photobucket.com/user/mr48chev/library/ALTERNATOR WIRING DIAGRAMS?sort=4&page=1
It looks like a driver not a front row at Roundup show rig. He can put some polished finned aluminum early looking valve covers on it and a big chrome air cleaner that hides stuff and call it a "big block" and life is good. If he runs the 10 DN he is good for pre 65 anyhow so what's the frigging point except to think you earn a few points for bringing it up?
It's the camel's nose in the tent. The big toe in the water. What's next? Custom wrapped 32-34, 40 Fords in fake patina? GPS hidden in glove boxes? USB ports for cell phone charging? By God, it's a slippery slope you're encouraging... a slippery slope... on the road to perdition.
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