Quote:
Originally Posted by rotorwrench
Alternators have the diode bridge to eliminate the need for a cut out. They only need a voltage regulator pole and a current limiter pole so the old ones are compact compared to a generator control unit. The modern solid state alternator control units can be pretty small so many are internal to the unit. The aircraft types have a trim pot to adjust voltage output but it's fixed on automotive stuff. They just have to have output within the acceptable range of operation.
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The Ford 1G alternator is current limited by design to 55 amps. Voltage is regulated through the external regulator. The circuit is fully explained in a Ford technical repair manual (which I actually have), with some components even called out like resistor values. According to the circuit diagram, a zener diode is what controls the voltage, when it reaches breakdown voltage it shuts the field current down. If someone with a little knowledge of some Darlington transistors could make a regulator that would output the required 7.2 volts, it would be a fun project. I'm just not versed enough in electronics....