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Old 09-20-2018, 03:20 PM   #1
37 Coupe
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Default Generator/alternator.

Everyday another issue.The short taper armature shaft and the pulley are both worn out and really was wobbling. Is it worth it to fix up the generator as I see a lot of guys use the alternator.The ones Brattons sells are not cheap and they are made by Nu Rex.might be okay but some of the NuRex stuff I have seen comes from India.I like the original look of a generator like on my '37 Ford it is an alternator inside a generator case. Mayby I should just get a rebuilt generator. that short taper doesn't seem to be one of Fords better ideas.
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Old 09-20-2018, 04:25 PM   #2
Patrick L.
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Default Re: Generator/alternator.

Its just an opinion, but, I prefer a generator. To me an alternator 'just ain't right' unless there is a good reason for one.

A generator with an internal regulator [ Tom W] is about as bullet proof as you can get.
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Old 09-20-2018, 04:29 PM   #3
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Default Re: Generator/alternator.

Plus of alternator: Higher amperage output and voltage regulation. Negative: Doesn't look stock. Plus of generator: Looks right. Negative: lower amperage output and no voltage regulation.
I use a stock generator with a voltage regulator. I have stock lightbulbs so get by with the generator output.
Make your own decision, the heck with everyone's OPINIONS.
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Old 09-20-2018, 04:50 PM   #4
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Default Re: Generator/alternator.

Maybe you have the wrong pulley on your generator
The short taper one uses a different pulley
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Old 09-20-2018, 04:56 PM   #5
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Default Re: Generator/alternator.

Gonna check that out tomorrow as to wrong pulley on what I know is the short snout. I just bought the car a month ago so everyday is some surprise.
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Old 09-20-2018, 05:14 PM   #6
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Default Re: Generator/alternator.

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An alt is made in a Model A shell. Same company that does the "flathead" ones. I have an alt on my A, it's a dull black and does NOT pop out at you when the hood is open, FWIW
Paul in CT
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Old 09-20-2018, 07:29 PM   #7
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Default Re: Generator/alternator.

Quote:
Originally Posted by 37 Coupe View Post
Everyday another issue.The short taper armature shaft and the pulley are both worn out and really was wobbling. Is it worth it to fix up the generator as I see a lot of guys use the alternator.The ones Brattons sells are not cheap and they are made by Nu Rex.might be okay but some of the NuRex stuff I have seen comes from India. I like the original look of a generator like on my '37 Ford it is an alternator inside a generator case. Mayby I should just get a rebuilt generator. that short taper doesn't seem to be one of Fords better ideas.
I have a Power Gen alternator on my Town Sedan.


Last edited by Y-Blockhead; 09-20-2018 at 07:34 PM.
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Old 09-20-2018, 10:33 PM   #8
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Default Re: Generator/alternator.

I use alt on the cars I tour with the cars I drive around town are generators I do not mind the alt look
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Old 09-21-2018, 04:51 PM   #9
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Default Re: Generator/alternator.

I prefer the original generator for the look and fact that I can service or overhaul the generator if needed .
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Old 09-22-2018, 10:01 AM   #10
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Default Re: Generator/alternator.

I'm with what Purdy and Patrick are saying, we run a stock generator with Tom Wesenberg's EVR (Electronic Voltage Regulator) and you have the best of both worlds.

Original look and works as well as an alternator. One of our cars is running an original fine-tuned cutout relay the other has a diode cutout both work great.

The diode would be the way to go for you if you don't have access to a GOOD original cutout. You have to snip a small wire on Tom's EVR if you run the diode cutout, he will send a diagram showing you what to do.
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Old 09-22-2018, 03:14 PM   #11
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Default Re: Generator/alternator.

Is it difficult to rebuild an original generator? Or does someone have a good reliable source that is honest enough? I don't think the issue is the pulley alone,the taper on the armature shaft is really wiped out.I can buy a new armature for less than $90 but I am pretty sure the bearings should also be replaced. The generator looks pretty good on the outside and most of the ones I see for sale on Ebay are over $175 and really pitted looking.
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Old 09-22-2018, 05:28 PM   #12
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Smile Re: Generator/alternator.

I thought I would add a little spice to the thread.


On my '31 "A" roadster I run a Delco-Remy 935-C ('35 Chevy truck) genny.
A few years ago I found on eBay an adapter bracket to do this. On the original box it states: "For real service use a bigger generator on your Model A & AA Fords". I believe it puts out about 5 more amps then the stock A generator. The cut-out is the correct Delco one and I also added a fuse. To
help protect the system from the headlights in case of a short.


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Old 09-22-2018, 05:55 PM   #13
Purdy Swoft
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Default Re: Generator/alternator.

I would look for a good used armature . I had to buy a few when I did some of our generators . Try A's & More 56 west st, Stafford Springs, CT 06076 Phone 1-860-684-6532 If Eric doesn't have one , Try Steve at Berts Model A center at 2767 South Tejon Street Englewood , CO. 80110 Phone 1-800-321-1931 or email [email protected] Berts has recently moved from Denver to their new building in Englewood . Good luck
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