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alternator vs generator

Discussion in 'Early CJ5 and CJ6 Tech' started by seabass1858, Feb 2, 2013.

  1. Feb 2, 2013
    seabass1858

    seabass1858 Member

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    I need to put new brushes in the generator of my 12v delco on my 1960. should I got through that trouble or just replace it with a modern alternator. Does it really matter?
     
  2. Feb 2, 2013
    PeteL

    PeteL If it wasn't for physics, and law enforcement... 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Hills of NH
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    It doesn't seem like much trouble to replace brushes, if thats all it needs. It's certainly way cheaper.
     
  3. Feb 3, 2013
    seabass1858

    seabass1858 Member

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    other than that it charges 14.4 volts and keeps my lights bright. I just notices some whine in it and it was brushes
     
  4. Feb 3, 2013
    PeteL

    PeteL If it wasn't for physics, and law enforcement... 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Hills of NH
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    "Whine" sounds more like bearings, but still not hard to replace. Original generators are valuable.

    Charge voltage is controlled by the regulator, not the generator.
     
  5. Feb 3, 2013
    Glenn

    Glenn Kinda grumpy old man Staff Member

    Apopka, Fl
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    The original generator in my wagon does fine at keeping the battery charged. They just don't charge at idle, and have a lower capacity.
     
  6. Feb 3, 2013
    Walt Couch

    Walt Couch sidehill Cordele, Ga. 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

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    To convert to alternator you will need to change to a special bracket mount for the alternator and some wiring changes due regulator elimination. You may also need to change the "V" belt. For the generator repair, you should replace the bearings and have the armature turned smooth and then undercut the commutator bars to aid in seating in the new brushes and remove all the carbon build-up between the bars. A local electrical shop should be able to do this quite reasonable. If you are not running any extra loads then I would stay with the gen.
     
  7. Feb 3, 2013
    seabass1858

    seabass1858 Member

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    a cd player, hella lights and awinch but its been doing that sinces the 80s
     
  8. Feb 3, 2013
    Walt Couch

    Walt Couch sidehill Cordele, Ga. 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

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    I think your 30 year run with it proves the gen is reliable and adequate.
     
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