So would an early 60's build have an alternator or a generator?

I think that's the way I'm going to go.

 

'63 and newer GM had alternators. '60 and newer Mopar had alternators. That Powermaster item is great ,....I bought one for my flatmotored 40. definitely was worth the price !!!!

4TTRUK

 

The advantage of an alternator over a generator is higher amperage output, both total and at low/idle engine rpm, including even the early externally regulated alternators from Ford/GM/Chrysler, which pale by comparison to the next/2nd generation of alternators. It really depends on the needs of your electrical system as to whether a generator can handle it. Modern electronic ignitions, for example, are much more sensitive to voltage drop than points.
Alternators began to appear in the mid ‘50s on some police/fire vehicles, and although not common, an early ‘60s car would be “period correct” with an alternator, especially if one is needed. JMO

 

I have a generator in my Hot Rod..(They dont like to be wound to High RPM's BTW..!!)

If you are after the "look"then it definitely looks the part! Nostalgic looking indeed!!

I have no complaints as far as performance, I have no radio,power windows etc.

If I remember correctly the GEN/Alternators such as Powermaster had overheating issues and would fail (when they were first introduced??) Being that the alternator was encased in within another Generator case,No airflow,plus,they cost a $mall fortune!

If you do install one (generator) make sure to ASK someone that knows how to ENERGIZE/POLARIZE the unit that you are installing!! It isn't a science but most people are unaware that this needs to be done..

Ford,Chevy,And Chrysler Generators ARE Different!! They polarize differently depending on the manufacturer I.E. Autolite,Remy,Etc.

Let me know what you would like to use and I can get you part #'s that you can take to any auto part store of your choice.

JW.

 

Thinking back to high school ('63) I remember alternators were the hot ticket as far as new technology went. A friend of mine had a '36 with a flattie and he managed to find an alternator in a wrecking yard. Every chance he got he popped the hood to show off his hot new alternator. You can use either but I would go for an alternator.

 

If you are going Racing with a SBC you might want to consider this...
idler pulley 1964 365HP - Corvette

Find more info here..



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Idler pulley 1964 365HP C1 & C2 Corvettes. ... The idler pulley is on these cars to keep the belt from flying off at high RPM's.

 

I had a 60 and a 62 Pontiac. Both had alternators on them.
Normbc9

 

Exactly! It's actually about the same way these days with new technology as well.

 

Good idea. Hard to tell by just looking at your avatar, but is that a SBC in your roadster? If so, did you use a MOPAR regulator as well? How did you wire it?

 

No im running 56' 324 Olds. But yes i have mounted a external regulator under the cowl.I uploaded a wire diagram from a 60' imperial and thats how i wired it. My avatar pic is at the antique nationals there i ran comp class so i removed the alternator and water pump.....chuck

 

I put a 60amp Chevy alternator in my 62 ford.... Works fine

 

In 1966 I bought a 63 Chevrolet alternater and regulater with wiring from my local junkyard ran it without problems for the next 13 years.