Alernator question
 

I am going to upgrade to an alternator on my flathead. They offer a 30 amp and a 60 amp, my 50 Merc is all stock and still 6 volt. Any opinions are welcome. Thanks, old guy rich.

Re: Alernator question
 

There isn't much you can add to a 6V car to need more than 30 amps, maybe an electric fan to cool the engine. If you will be using your engine mechanical fan my opinion is that anything more than 30 amps is wasted.

Re: Alernator question
 

I bought one from the local alternator shop for $55.

Re: Alernator question
 

If you are all stock, why change from generator to alternator? The generator will carry the load and not detract from the classic aura when you open the hood at a the Diner. My '41 is 12 volt and much shiny stuff under the hood, but could bear the look of an alternator. Paid a stupid amount ($430) for the PowerGen "looks like a generator" alternator.

Re: Alernator question
 

A properly rebuilt generator should do everything you need and last as long as you own the car.

Charlie Stephens

Re: Alernator question
 

Thanks guys, good food for thought, I appreciate it. old guy.

Re: Alernator question
 

Where can you get a rebuilt generator for $55 with no core?

Re: Alernator question
 

I agree with Charlie. An original generator in good working condition will do what you need to do and just look right on your original car.

Re: Alernator question
 

You need to get the diode polarity changed and for about $35.00 have
a 24 volt stator installed. This will allow it to almost fully charge at idle
with a stock size pulley. I had 2 done years ago and they worked perfect.
I didn't like the appearance and made 7 6 volt alternators in the Ford
generator bodies, some have 30 or 40,000 miles and never had a problem.
G.M.

Re: Alernator question
 

Does your engine have narrow belts or wide belts? Something to consider, I have a narrow-belt engine on my truck with a 65-amp alternator. It tends to give a very brief squeal on startup when the alternator kicks in. Not a problem on wide-belt engines I've seen. I think it can overwhelm the narrow belt when it goes to full output at low speeds, unless you tighten the belt excessively. I put up with the squeal.

I haven't touched my alternator in 12 years. My first 12v battery lasted that long, too. Bright headlights at all times. The number 1 problem on EFV8 outings here was always related to the charging system, regulators going bad, or the rear bushing on the gen seizing, etc. There's a reason no one uses them any more.

Re: Alernator question
 

Thanks again guys. I plan to travel the country as soon as my wife retires and bright lights was my main concern. 50 Merc tail lights are pretty small, kinda hard to see in the day time. I have put my thinking cap on and will weigh all these good comments. Old guy.

Re: Alernator question
 

An alternator isn't going to increase bulb brightness.....................
Paul in CT

Re: Alernator question
 

Might consider a third tail light in the rear window. They also come with turn signals built in.

Re: Alernator question
 

You can get super bright bulbs from Sacramento Vintage Ford, if they have them in stock, switch to LEDs or paint the inside of your tail light housings white. I did the latter on my 45 truck where one side was dim and it made a remarkable difference. I will try it on my 39 sedan, too.

Re: Alernator question
 

My '47 had a one wire alternator for many years. I thought it would improve the lights, particularly the headlights. It didn't, so I traced the lighting circuit and found most power was lost between the dash switch, the dimmer switch, and the many bullet connectors. I installed a relay panel operated by the original circuit, and fed directly from the battery. Now, the lights are as bright as new. The alternator maintains the battery with no problem. It is a converted 30 amp GM type.

Re: Alernator question
 

I've read here, in the past, that the brightest tail light reflectors are achieved by painting them gloss-white enamel. Ron Francis Wiring carries extra bright bulbs. Not sure about six volt though.

Certainly can't beat LED and or, third brake light. Speaking of third brake lights I have twice seen after market third lights that were not worth the trouble or expense. If you take that route, be sure to get quality, not just glamour. Happy Motoring!

Re: Alernator question
 

Don't have one on a early car but the Ford 3G Alt have more than 1 type of built in regulator. I knew at one time what color denoted it, think it is white, but one of them is a "soft start" and doesn't put full charge out for a bit to prevent the belt squealing. Maybe other brands offer the same thing. X2 on the relays and white in the housings.

Re: Alernator question
 

More good ideas, thanks again guys !! old guy

Re: Alernator question
 

Speaking of brake and rear directional lighting (slightly off-topic), one of the best items I've bought for my '47 Ford Coupe, to help drivers notice my car and driving intentions, was a slim LED combo brake and directional strip light that is very inconspicuous. Its small, about 3/4 inch high by about 10 inches long, and attaches to the rear window (in full view of cars behind) with a small suction cup at each end. Moveable, removable, no physical alteration to car, easy to wire-up. Its called the "Brakelighter" by J & L Enterprises, Ellington CT 06029 (860) 916-3582. Google that and see photos of the unit, or phone the owner for data. Best safety device for $70 that I've spent on a car .... another old guy :D.

Note: This device displays both brake and directional functions.

Re: Alernator question
 

Here's another less expensive option that requires no wiring: http://www.brakeflasher.com/main_classic.htm