Can a mechanical alternator be replaced with a solid state regulator?
While you can purchase a newer solid-state regulator to replace the mechanical one, they are still external to the alternator and that creates the opportunity for problems. As I said, there are three wires connecting the alternator and regulator. Each has a female spade connector on both ends.
What kind of alternator do I need for a vintage car?
For all these reasons, a nice upgrade to a vintage car is to replace the externally-regulated three-wire alternator with a newer internally-regulated single-wire unit. In addition to losing the external regulator and its nine failure points, the internally-regulated alternators have two additional advantages.
How can I upgrade my alternator to single wire?
To upgrade from a three-wire externally-regulated alternator to a single-wire internally-regulated unit, you first need to procure one that’ll fit the bracket on your engine and have the pulley align correctly with the other accessories that run off the same belt. There are two ways to do this.
What’s the problem with an externally regulated alternator?
The problem with externally regulated alternators is several-fold. First, the external regulator is mechanical. It has contact points that open and close 10–20 times per second to take the alternator’s native 17-ish-volt output, turn it on and off quickly, and average it down to roughly 13.5 volts.
Can you use an external voltage regulator on a 1987 Dodge alternator?
This kit can be used on Standard and High Output Alternators with External Voltage control. Also, this product can be used as a wiring harness and external voltage regulator replacement kit for any 1987 and earlier Chrysler Family vehicle alternator with dual insulated brushes.
What kind of alternator does a car before the 1970s have?
Cars made before the late 1970s have an alternator with an external voltage regulator. On European cars, they’re sometimes called a “three-wire alternator.”
What to do if your alternator stops charging?
Great Emergency kit to keep on hand, just in case you computer stops your alternator from charging. We now provide all you need to get your Chrysler family vehicle’s charging system working or get a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep overcharging condition back in control plus you can prevent ECU failure from installing a high output alternator.
While you can purchase a newer solid-state regulator to replace the mechanical one, they are still external to the alternator and that creates the opportunity for problems. As I said, there are three wires connecting the alternator and regulator. Each has a female spade connector on both ends.
