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I'm having an engine built and sent my generator to the builder. He's recommending that I use an alternator instead of the generator. What advantages are there to an alternator? What else in my electrical system will need to be changed out once I get the completed engine?

Thanks in advance,

Warner

Generators put out 30amps while the alternator puts out 55amps.

If you generator is 12 volts then it's a simple swap and you need to remove the original regulator since the new AL82 alternators have an internal regulator.

the other big advantage is that generators have brushes that wear & must be replaced. Alternators don't have this problem.

Glenn wrote:Generators put out 30amps while the alternator puts out 55amps.

If you generator is 12 volts then it's a simple swap and you need to remove the original regulator since the new AL82 alternators have an internal regulator.

Glenn, thanks for the ultra-quick and very informative post. You are an assett here!

Warner


PS - I'll let you know how my 2180 (thick walled 92's like yours) does on DRD's dyno when he gets it together!

Glenn wrote:Generators put out 30amps while the alternator puts out 55amps.

If you generator is 12 volts then it's a simple swap and you need to remove the original regulator since the new AL82 alternators have an internal regulator.

Glenn, thanks for the ultra-quick and very informative post. You are an assett here!

Warner


PS - I'll let you know how my 2180 (thick walled 92's like yours) does on DRD's dyno when he gets it together!

I think you have the change the fuel pump too with the offset one.

If you go alternator.. you want a 2 terminal (internally regulated) alternator.. not the Motorola.

Ol'fogasaurus wrote:I think you have the change the fuel pump too with the offset one.

Correct.

If you choose to use an alternator... mind if the title is changed to "alternator conversion?"

Could expand to the parts etc.

This post is based on a very smart question

http://www.shoptalkforums.com/viewtopic.php?t=107828

So we all can become involved..

1-What parts are required?
2-What are the common mistakes?
3-Which alternator do you suggest?
4-Any tricks?
5-Did I miss something?

moved

MNAirHead wrote:If you choose to use an alternator... mind if the title is changed to "alternator conversion?"

Could expand to the parts etc.

I think the "what advantages to an alternator... " is a valid question--

I understand the fact that a generator is only 30 amps, but what exactly does that mean for my daily driver? Will my battery slowly die if I exceed its capacity?

Is anyone using a generator with good results? If so, how many accessories are you running off it?

Gotta go... I'd better start shopping for an alternator.

~Troy