Re: Newbie - outboard question
I don't know model numbers but these engines were made with various ignition systems. Some came with magneto ignition and would not charge the battery. others came with points and coils and an alternator and would charge the battery. Others were manufactured with electronic ignition and an alternator and again would charge the battery.
Euro knows numbers so your engine has an alternator. The center is wound with copper wire coils and since it is bolted to the engine, it does not move. Therefore it is called a STATOR. The field is the rotating magnet either cast into the flywheel or glued under the rim (depending upon whether you have old or newer style.
It is called an alternator because it produces AC voltage which is then changed to DC by the rectifier.
The major difference between it and an automobile alternator is that the auto one has the "stator" rotating and the field is stationary. The auto field is also copper wound instead of permanent magnets, and the voltage regulator controls the field strength and the alternator output. Most auto alternators have internal diodes to rectify the AC. They are much more efficient (and costly).
Your alternator is non-regulated, constant output (about 7 amps). It was designed to do little more than replace the charge taken out of the battery to start the engine. It will operate running lights and a low power radio/ CD player but not much else.
