Alternators

[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.

[2speed]

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.

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....