Just a comment about alternators and generators.
Both put out less at low rotational speed (ultimate case - no output when
they are not turning),
but an alternator puts out much more at idle speed than a generator does -
one of the advantages touted by Chrysler when they started putting them on
production vehicles about 1960 or so. A generator equipped vehicle will show
a noticeable discharge at idle as the battery delivers power to operate the
vehicle, especially if the headlights are on. An alternator will typically
put out nearly its full rated output at just above idle. Perhaps what you
are seeing is due to the lower idle speed of the inline engine.
Gwyn Reedy
Brandon, Florida
mailto:mgr@mgrcorp.com
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-oletrucks@autox.team.net
> [mailto:owner-oletrucks@autox.team.net]On Behalf Of sheldon
> Sent: Thursday, March 11, 1999 11:02 AM
> To: 'oletrucks@autox.team.net'
> Subject: RE: [oletrucks] Brakes & Alternator
>
>
>
>
>
> I have two problems I'd really like some assistance with:
> 1. Brakes...When I mash the brake pedal and release it, the pedal doesn't
> come all the way back up to the top. It stops about an inch from the top,
> and stays depressed just enough that it leaves my brake lights
> on. (Ran my
> battery down Monday!) Is there a spring of some type that pulls the brake
> pedal all the way back up to the top? If so, where is the spring located
> and how hard is it to replace? If that's not the issue, what
> else should I
> check?
>
> 2. My headlights get brighter when I rev up my engine. (Brighter than at
> idle.) My truck has been converted to 12 volts and has an alternator.
> Does
> this mean the alternator is not working well. Or...is this normal and no
> problem at all?
>
> Many thanks for your help!
> Tom Caperton
> '47 2nd 3100
>
>
> Tom,
>
> on #2 above, Alternators typically do not produce much current at low
> rpm's, and if there is much current use, the system will drop to battery
> voltage (11.2 -12.1) when the alternator is really spinning, the system
> voltage should be about 14.3 at the alternator output terminal. If your
> battery is getting tired, you will see more system voltage drop at idle
> (you may want to check the battery condition) but some dimming at idle is
> typical.
>
> Sheldon, '56 4x4
>
> oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
>
oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
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