Alternator / Voltage Regulator

[DAVID GAGNARD]

Originally Posted by Large Arbor

Thanks for the refresher Patrick. I knew the function (i.e. to measure current) but I did not know where it was measuring flow from. It seems to me the Voltmeter, while not period correct willl provide greater indication of whats going on with the alternator and voltage regulator. I know the things that draw load but its not much. My alternator is acually an 85 amp version so I would guess its putting out 60 most of the time (Cobra Valley version).. Eventually, I will push the amperage up on the alternator but for now the 85 A variety will be fine.

Phil

Phil: not familiar with the type of alternator you have,but if it the old style Ford alternator, you can convert it for about 40 bucks and 3 minutes of work to a one wire alternator,eliminating the external voltage regulator....

I did this on my 65 fastback street car back around 1996 and all has been well ever since.....ran the same alternator set-up on my race car for 8 seasons with no problems.....

BTW: I'm using a 60 amp old style Ford alternator in the fastback.....it has an MSD ignition and one humungus OEM Caddilac electric fan and I have not had any problems with amps/volts or enough electrical power to run everything...check my photo gallery,I think there is a photo or two of the alternator with the one wire mod on it...

David