Herb :
Welcome to the list !
I use a Ford alternator (external regulator) on my TR3, and I've been
extremely happy with it.
Dan Masters has written up some specific instructions for wiring a GM
alternator on a TR3, you can find them at
http://www.vtr.org/maintain/alternator/gm-tr2-3.html along with general
information at
http://www.vtr.org/maintain/alternator/conversions.html#instructions
Although Dan recommends removing the original regulator, it is possible to
leave it in place, disconnecting only the ground wire. (That was my
approach.)
For mounting, I removed the 'adapter' that goes between the engine front
plate and the generator front plate, and cut the alternator body to fit
there (The Ford has only one, large tab.) I then used a piece of pipe as a
spacer between the old generator mounting points, and ran a large bolt
through the alternator, the front plate, the spacer and the rear mounting
point. I think the GM has two tabs, so you will need to improvise. I bent
the upper bracket to fit, and had the old 3/4" wide pulley machined to fit
on the alternator shaft. Some cutting on the alternator housing was
required to get enough slack to put the belt on. (I didn't want to cut the
mounting bracket or engine front plate.) Although the bolt doesn't fit
tight in the alternator (I picked a size to pass through the original
holes), I've been running this setup for some 15 years with no problems.
Be warned, if you remove the bolts that hold the original generator bracket
to the block : those bolt holes communicate with the crankcase. If they
are out, the engine will blow oil through the holes. If you disturb them,
be sure to use new lockwashers and thread sealant when you replace them.
Randall
59 TR3A "daily driver wanna be"
On Wednesday, July 28, 1999 9:08 AM, Herb Neumann
[SMTP:herb.neumann@csb.varian.com] wrote:
>
> Hi all, I'm new to this list, I've been on the TR7,8 list for about 4
> years. I started to drive my 1960 TR 3A this year and am curious if
anyone
> on the list has converted from a Generator to an Alternator. My TR3 has
> been converted to negative ground.
> I would like to use a GM alternator with built in regulator, Model 10SI,
> used in the 70's and 80's. Anyone done this? Any helpful hints on
> mounting and pulley and belt?
> Thanks.
> Triumphfully yours Herb Neumann Concord CA 1960 TR 3 A
>
>
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