Hi all

I installed a one wire alternator on my rebuilt engine. The installation instructions call for a direct connection to the battery. Is there any way to re-purpose the generator light on the dash as an idiot light for the new alternator?

MplsMike
'56 Parklane
Minneapolis, MN

Probably not easily.  You will need something to detect low voltage and then turn on the bulb somehow.
Gauges work well, though.  Just make it a habit to check them from time to time.


Lawrenceville, GA

Charlie’s correct. To run the gen light, you wire it as a 3 wire setup on a lot of them. You should also check your charging voltage at the battery. Most of the time it’s fine, but I’ve had installations where a 1 wire is low at the battery. The 3wire set up cures that also.

miker
55 bird, 32 cabrio F code
Kent, WA
Tucson, AZ

There is one of the advertised single wire alternators that actually uses one of the old gen wires going to the reg and does just that. There is a second connection on the back. I don't remember the brand but I'm sure it can be searched.
 If I did that I'd miss the soft glow of the red gen light at idle.

56 Vic, B'Ville 200 MPH Club Member, So Cal.

I have a single wire alternator that had a plug cap I had to remove to hook up the wire for the light. works well. I will look through my records for the brand when I get home. purchased it on EBay. you might want to just try searching EBay for it. Mine was made for a 57 Tbird, nice and easy install.

That sounds a lot like the “shorting plug” used on a lot of Delco’s to turn a 3 wire into a 1 wire. Don’t know about other units, and didn’t know you could just run the light. Post the wiring diagram if you can.

miker
55 bird, 32 cabrio F code
Kent, WA
Tucson, AZ

If you don't care aout the light, you can always use a voltmeter and if you don't want to hang one below the dash, they make digital ones that are inexpensive an fit into the cigar lighter socket. I like the more authentic look.  I used the Power Gen 2 wire (actually 3 because you need a good ground) set up on their alternator that is made to look like the Ford generator.  I uesd the stock harness and the original style voltage regulator.  I had to cut the internals and re arrange the wire hookups, but I now have a working dash light.  The only downside is the expense,  The Power Gen is in the $400 range but I love mine and would recommend it to anyone that wants to keep the stock look.

This is what was sent with my alternator, manufactured by Romaine Electric #7127NSE
Bought on EBay the seller was “b2xu@att.net he sells a lot of alternator kits
remember mine was for a 57 Tbird