57 special generator to alternator conversion
- Thread starter Elsa57
- Start date
The alternator which enables the easiest conversion is the Delco internally regulated type 10-SI. These were used on most GM cars from the mid 70s through the mid 80s. Any decent parts store should either stock them or be able to order one on short notice. They are also readily available online.
Detailed instructions for the conversion are available here:
http://www.rowand.net/Shop/Tech/GeneratorToInternallyRegulatedAlternator.htm
This page is also worth looking at, because it explains about the clock position of the plug-in connector and will be of help when you run into a clueless partsperson:
http://www.madelectrical.com/electricaltech/delcoremy.shtml
If you need additional info please post again.
Ray
Detailed instructions for the conversion are available here:
http://www.rowand.net/Shop/Tech/GeneratorToInternallyRegulatedAlternator.htm
This page is also worth looking at, because it explains about the clock position of the plug-in connector and will be of help when you run into a clueless partsperson:
http://www.madelectrical.com/electricaltech/delcoremy.shtml
If you need additional info please post again.
Ray
buickrodder
Active Member
one more thing..
The Buick's up until 1960 had a starter switch on the carburetor to start the engine and a relay that worked with it. The starter relay got it's ground through the generator so that once the engine is started and generator was charging the starter would not engage. When switching to an alternator you will have to ground that relay wire, you still have a neutral safety switch so no way that the starter will engine when driving the car.
The Buick's up until 1960 had a starter switch on the carburetor to start the engine and a relay that worked with it. The starter relay got it's ground through the generator so that once the engine is started and generator was charging the starter would not engage. When switching to an alternator you will have to ground that relay wire, you still have a neutral safety switch so no way that the starter will engine when driving the car.
65specialconvert
Active Member
Unless your increasing the load on the electrical system,stick with the generator.:thumbsup:
Thanks, this helps a lot
I have to charge my battery every couple of weeks, what would should i check first?
I have to charge my battery every couple of weeks, what would should i check first?
buickrodder
Active Member
dead battery?
Start with checking for a draw and then check the charging system, all basic mechanic stuff that you can read about on the internet. The generator will do a good job with a stock car, if you are adding a radiator cooling fan, AC or a monster stereo better step up to an alternator.. I love the look of the generator on a vintage car but they need rebuilding often, the brushes wear out faster because all the 35 amps of output goes through them, an alternator brushes have only a few amps going through them so they last 100,000 miles.
Start with checking for a draw and then check the charging system, all basic mechanic stuff that you can read about on the internet. The generator will do a good job with a stock car, if you are adding a radiator cooling fan, AC or a monster stereo better step up to an alternator.. I love the look of the generator on a vintage car but they need rebuilding often, the brushes wear out faster because all the 35 amps of output goes through them, an alternator brushes have only a few amps going through them so they last 100,000 miles.