[Healeys] alternator conversion

[Al Fuller]

Hey, Mitch:

I installed an alternator on my '62 BT-7, and am very happy with it.  You
asked for pros and cons, so here goes:

CONS:
- The car is no longer 'original'.  This can be un-done, though, if you or a
future owner wants

- Conversion to negative ground is pretty much necessary.  This is easy,
reversible and well documented

- Installing the alternator induced all manner of ideas for the car and
extra work to plan and implement the ideas, such as:

	-- Volt meter / ammeter or both
	-- Power port for cell phone, GPS, etc.
	-- Stereo / radio
	-- CB radio [VERY useful for multi-car driving events]
	-- High mounted third brake light
	-- Fog / Driving lights on badge bar
	-- Extra stop lights in rear
	-- Extra fuse box [located where old voltage regulator sat]
	-- Extra circuits to/from the new fuse box
	-- Review / planning of current draw to ensure all the above can be
accommodated with the new alternator

PROS:
- No worries about running out of electricity, given the high output of the
alternator
- High reliability
- Access to replacement alternators at any NAPA or equivalent auto parts
store [if the above-mentioned reliability doesn't materialize]
- No worries about using any modern accessories
- No worries about mistakes when charging or jumping the car with a modern
battery charger or negative ground car
- Headlights are brighter than with generator

I hope this helps!  [See you tonight at Healey Night!]


Al Fuller
714.335.0248



-----Original Message-----
From: healeys-bounces at autox.team.net [mailto:healeys-bounces at autox.team.net]
On Behalf Of caddi5 at comcast.net
Sent: Tuesday, November 11, 2008 1:25 PM
To: HEALEY LIST
Subject: [Healeys] alternator conversion

Hello List,

I need some advice, I am thinking about converting original generator to an
alternator on my 59 bn4 (actually I am ordering a new wiring harness and
need to know before I order it) My car has fog lights and I am thinking
about adding a radio,cigar lighter (maybe) anyway will the generator work
ok? or should I convert......what are the pros and cons?

thanks in advance
Mitch
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