Thanks for the input George, I found a pack of 6 amp rectifier diodes with a
50v PIV rating in the RS catalog. I think Rick's idea about the cap
certainly can't hurt. I'll place these in the circuit just before the box
which is located on the front of the passenger side wheel well behind the
air vent. I'll insulate it with a bit of ThermoTec to help keep it a little
cooler.
I'm battling a flu right now, but hopefully I'll get a chance to ring the
circuit out this weekend. I'd rather have done the install on the MSD box,
tach adapter, and distributor then have to go in after someone else's
mistakes.
stephan#2821
----- Original Message -----
From: "George Schiro" <gschiro@lni.net>
To: "High Tech Coatings" <htc@MNSi.Net>; "bricklin"
<Bricklin@autox.team.net>
Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2000 9:27 AM
Subject: Re: Rick, more alternator stuff
> I don't have the 1N 4001specs, but automotive applications require more
> careful attention to heat budgets. Because the ambient temperature is
> higher within an engine compartment, you have to check whether the
> semiconductor will remain within its operating temperature range while
> handling the worst case current load. Extra heat sinking might be
> necessary or the substitution of a diode with a higher temperature
> breakdown limit. Heat will also shorten the life of a semiconductor, so
> early failure is always a possibility if the wrong part is used. Don't
> forget to use heat sink compound to make a good thermal coupling between
> the component and any mountings or heat sinks. You can get is at Radio
> Shack.
>
>
> George
>
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