converting to an alternator

I searched the threads prior to posting, but I didnt seem to find any info on what alternator is good to use when replacing a generator. I have a 56 312 Y block and I am sick of fooling with the generator... I have rebuilt the generator, repolerized it and it still is giving me charging issues... at this point, I would rather slap a alt on it and get driving!

any help is a apriciated.

thanks,
hank

 

I saw a whole kit on egay for like 50 bucks. I would look at your regulator, but if you really want to do it, there isnt much to it. Its more involved going 12v than regulating a gen.
Here is a good place to read up on what your doing.
http://www.flatheadv8.org/rumblest/electric.pdf

 

Have you taken your generator to a rebuild shop to have it checked?
That would be my next move. They aren't that complex, Check your wires, ground your regulator and be sure your generator has a good ground.
If your generator checks out good go through the wires and change your regulator.
How many volts is the generator showing at the battery terminals.

 

I have to grab a multi meter at work since I ran over mine the last time I was fooling with it, and will get some readings. after I rebuilt it, it seemed to be working fine but now it is acting up again...

 

thanks, it is already a 12 v system. the wires look kinda shity, so I will rewire tonight and see what is what...

 

It is easy to convert to an alternator using a GM 10-SI internally regulated alternator. These were used from about 1974 to 1986. Plety of them available in junkyards.
Wiring:
10 gauge wire from battery to screw terminal
Jumper 14 gauge wire from screw terminal to #2 terminal on alt (this terminal is farthest from screw terminal)
14 gauge wire from ign switch to #1 terminal. This wire should come thru idiot light and only have power in the run position.

 

And if any of you guys want to run an alternator, but retain all of the 6-volt stuff, including the battery, you can buy the Delco 10-SI in a 6-volt version, or just build one yourself. Here's one of many places you can get the kits, even for positive ground setups.

http://store.alternatorparts.com/6voltalternatorconversionrepairkits.aspx

 

uh... had the field and ground wire switched... wired it properly, and now it is working...