Anybody got thoughts, suggestions or experience on keeping teh generator look but upgrading to a more reliable charging system?  Mine currently is not putting out enough to keep the battery charged.  PowerGen has part 82101  (http://www.jegs.com/i/Powermaster/713/82101/10002/-1) for about $370 but I didn't know if there were other options.  Thanks

Warsaw, IN

It should be putting out between 13.7 and 14.3 to keep the battery charged. If not, could be either the generator or regulator. Have both checked out.



I have a stock generator/regulator on my 56 Bird and have no problems keeping the battery charged. But this is a stock Bird, no heavy extra electrical equipment.

54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ

That's pretty cool. I like my normal Powermaster alternator so far. I've heard of other generator looking alternators and I've heard they're just as pricey. If it's the look you want, then that's definitely the way to go.

I just took a look at the product line, it looks like they even have 6v versions.


Lawrenceville, GA

BFooter: I've experienced similar problems. While it's true that a generator doesn't charge at low engine speed, under normal driving & load it should be fine. Have you done a voltage check across the battery with the engine running at a fast idle? Another thing, if your truck has an aftermarket Amp gauge, it needs heavy wiring. #14 or #12 won't cut it.. To much resistance.

Paul

That is pretty slick.  I ditched my generator years ago, and use a GM 1 wire alernator.  I got one that is powder coated black, so it doesnt stand out as being incorrect, and the cost was around $85.  The 1 wire/internally regulated made it really easy to hook up.  Probably could have made the generator work ok, but i have an aftermarket stereo, amp, ipod/sat radio, etc....

Ron Grove

Wauconda, IL

I have a GM one wire on mine that works very well but I like the looks of that one.

   God Bless.   Tim                           http://yblockguy.com/

350ci Y-Block FED "Elwood", 301ci Y-Block Unibody LSR "Jake", 312ci Y-Block '58 F-100, 338ci Y-Block powered Model A Tudor

tim@yblockguy.com  Visalia, California    Just west of the Sequoias

yeah, I've seen those before too and if doing it all over today I would do that instead of my one wire, painted satin black. Considering the cost of a pulley and questionable bracket change minor hassle, etc., etc with an alternator setup. That's pretty cool.



ok, but then what do you do with your unused voltage regulator-dummy off the wire harness, hinge the top and keep your secret stuff in there for quick access? I'm waiting for some creative ideas.

       A  L  A  N   F  R  A  K  E  S   ~  Tulsa, OK    

Alan, I'm in the process of modifying my old voltage regulator to hold the controller for my electric radiator fan. The old wire from the solenoid will work to power it and the wire for the gen light will be wired for the ignition on signal, New wires out will be routed as before but will go to the fan instead of the generator. Should work well. Mike

1956 Fairlane Victoria (ORREO)

 

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