[Healeys] Alternator fo BJ 8

[Ray Carbone]

Hi All,

Sorry I didn't post this sooner.  At different times I have installed both a 65 amp (more than sufficient) 10-SI and a 105 amp (ridiculous) CS130 Delco alternators on my BJ8 and found both to be effective.  I have also found the easiest and most economical way to mount these units, without modification to the alternator housing, was to install a double pulley on the alternator to gain the forward spacing necessary for belt alignment.  This installation approach allows the use of the existing Healey generator engine mounting bracket and only requires the addition of a length of 3/8" pipe as a spacer and a single long bolt (fitted through the distributor side) to secure the unit.  

Additionally, a longer universal belt adjuster was required and obtained from the internet.  The original adjuster was removed and the new unit was installed on the inner side (opposite of the original) of the original location with a new bolt and properly spaced with washers.  This placement allowed the new adjuster to secure proper belt tension and attached to the alternator on the inside of the mounting ear (rather than the pulley side} to eliminate any chance of cooling fin interference.

The benefits of this mounting approach are simplicity (few components), cost of under $40 (the double pulley - 3/8" or 1/2" cost approx $12 and the adjuster $10 plus shipping along with pipe and bolt from Home Depot for $6).  Also, the alternator is mounted the way it was designed and with no modifications to any component.  The best part, I painted the components with Healey engine paint (as was the original generator) and the installation looks natural.

You can obtain the double pulley you need (3/8" or 1/2"), the alternator, and the adjustor from Wayne Weitzel at Weitzel Garage (419-668-2844 or on eBay at   http://stores.ebay.com/Triodiode-DC-Electric-And-Tractor_W0QQ_trksidZp284.m184QQ_trkparmsZalgo%3DDR%26its%3DS%252BI%252BSS%26itu%3DISS%252BUCI%252BSI%26otn%3D4     (no financial connection).  If you order the alternator, call him and ask him to mount the double pulley so you don't have the added task.  Wayne is a pleasant and helpful person and I have found his prices very competitive.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Ray Carbone '64 BJ8 original owner