alternator
 

When converting to an alternator what do you do with the voltage regulator?

Re: alternator
 

I put mine on a shelf in the garage along with the old generator.

Re: alternator
 

Using a 1 wire GM type alternator the voltage regulator isn't needed. You can leave it where it its as a placeholder or as stated above remove it altogether.

Re: alternator
 

Leave it and connect the alt. one wire to batt terminal on the regulator so current will flow throught the ampmeter as the generator would.....

Re: alternator
 

Purchasing an Alternator: The diodes used in Alternators to control voltage can be unreliable. Rebuilds typically come from China. I bought two in a row that had bad diodes which allowed higher than allowed voltage. Best to have your local electrical shop check a new or used one. They can last a long time. Might be a reasonable idea to buy an older one thru a salvage place and test it.

Re: alternator
 

Why would you not buy USA?

Re: alternator
 

Replacement diodes might not be good. I can't speak to that. However, I point out that diodes in alternators DO NOT control voltage.

Re: alternator
 

According to google's auto intelligence guy---


"In alternator voltage regulation, a Zener diode acts as a voltage reference, providing a stable voltage to control the output of the alternator, typically by triggering a transistor to regulate the field current"