Swapping a generator for an alternator???

[bob_bmoore]

Hi I have a 1964 Johnson 40 hp super sea horse. The motor came with a generator and a voltage regulator. But I can not get them to work properly. I have gotten 0.6 volts out of the generator, but when I hook it up to the regulator no power makes it to the battery. So the battery is not being charged. I really don't understand why the regulator isn't working. It doesn't chatter or anything. So I assume it is shot. It is hard to find parts. The regulator is 12v 10a I believe. I was wondering if I could use an alternator out of an old geo metro, or I have one out of my 1993 del sol. I think I could build brackets for it. I am not sure about the rpm's in an alternator compared to a generator. I need some good advice thank you!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Swapping a generator for an alternator???

If you are getting 0.6 volts from the generator it is the generator that is not working and it is not working. It makes the power, the regulator only limits the charging current. It can't regulate if it has noting coming from the generator to regulate. If you know how to wire the alternator and it has an internal regulator it might be worth a try. I suspect that you won't have room to put the cowl on though as alternators are generally larger in diameter than a generator (although they are shorter). Also realize that the alternator is not ignition protected so sparks under the engine cover is not a good thing in the presence of gas fumes. On the other hand, if you have a good size battery, it would likely run the starter most of the summer without the need for charging (just like they did years before that).