The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop converting to 12 alternator.

I found a 12 volt alternator...I have heard these called 2 wire alternators but I think this is also referred to as a 1 wire.
http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2808211950083206947leFsmC

I believe I can connect the red wire from the DA plug and the red wire on the fastener to the battery and the other DA wire to the ammeter. Then disconnect the voltage regulator and have a 12 volt system.

I also need 12 volt light bulbs and resistors in front of my fuel gauge and coil. This is a floor stomp starter.

My question is I have a 6v pertronics ignition. If I have a resistor in front of the coil can I keep the flamethrower coil and pertronics ignition set up for my current 6v system or do I need to replace them with 12 volt pertronics set up.

Thanks
Rich

Do you have a model number for your alternator? Knowing what size it is might make a difference in wire size as you connect it.

The 1-wire approach requires revving the motor to get the alternator above a certain speed before it begins charging. Using all three wires means the alternator will provide power when it is needed.

I'm not a fan of the 1-wire approach though many others love it.

If you get the resistor wrong you might cook or under power the Pertonix. I'd suggest swapping to the 12-volt version.

Old sub. Is there an alternative to the 1 wire approach?

Sure.

Wire it the way the factory wired the alternator. While people use a GM alternator as a 1-wire I don't believe GM ever installed it in a car or truck that way.

I'm not a big fan of Mad Electrical buy you might find their explanation of 1-wire versus 3- helpful. Mad Electrical.

I don't seem to have any wiring diagrams handy or I'd post a link to one.

Old sub,

I think I have a three wire and I would like to wire it that way.

Maybe I misunderstand but it looks like the three wire in the link you sent is wired so that one wire from the DA plug on the alternator is connected to the terminal wire on the back of the alternator. That terminal is then connected to the batt terminal from the old voltage regulator. The second wire from the DA plug on the alternator would go to the ignition switch. Is that not a 3 wire configuration?

If I put a light in the line to the ignition would that function as an alt light and light up when not charging?

Thanks
Rich

That sounds right but its been so long since I last did it I'd have to look it up to be sure.

We use 1 wire on all of our trucks and stationary engines. However they do have 2 terminals. One goes to the battery and the other is grounded to the block or a starter mounting bolt. This is a pretty good discussion about alternators. http://news.prestolite.com/drupaldocs/TSB-1057_Universal_alternator_wiring.pdf