The Ford Barn - View Single Post

rotorwrench · 08-05-2019, 05:52 PM

Most magnetos generate an alternating current. Since they are residual magnets, they are somewhat limited in current output. AC power would require a rectifier set up to change the output to direct current. The pick up coils can limit the voltage output depending on how they are set up. I'm not sure what voltage a model T magneto puts out normally and the output can be pulsating direct current if there is a breaker set up but they usually use trembler coils to do that job.

Many of the old British motorcycles used a residual magnet alternator and they had a rectifier set that worked fairly well. the output was usually around 6 to 8 amps. These old Lucas units are a lot smaller than a model T set up. They had both 6 and 12-volt units. Japanese bikes were mostly 12-volt.

Will the car still be using the magneto for ignition?

08-05-2019, 05:52 PM	#3
rotorwrench Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: San Antonio, Texas Posts: 16,431	Re: Magneto battery charger Most magnetos generate an alternating current. Since they are residual magnets, they are somewhat limited in current output. AC power would require a rectifier set up to change the output to direct current. The pick up coils can limit the voltage output depending on how they are set up. I'm not sure what voltage a model T magneto puts out normally and the output can be pulsating direct current if there is a breaker set up but they usually use trembler coils to do that job. Many of the old British motorcycles used a residual magnet alternator and they had a rectifier set that worked fairly well. the output was usually around 6 to 8 amps. These old Lucas units are a lot smaller than a model T set up. They had both 6 and 12-volt units. Japanese bikes were mostly 12-volt. Will the car still be using the magneto for ignition? Last edited by rotorwrench; 08-05-2019 at 06:01 PM.