Re: 1937 120 Conv. Sedan - Blanche

Posted by HH56 On 2024/4/4 11:37:15

Most generators provide the high current ground path to the frame or battery ground connection by virtue of the generator components being connected internally to the generator case. The ground path connection is then provided to the frame or battery by the mounting bracket and bolting hardware. Since the generator is on the engine block and not the frame it is somewhat separated by rubber mounts. Some models with remote battery positions did use a ground strap between the block and frame to get to the battery ground strap.

A small secondary generator ground is only a reference and is usually connected directly to the regulator by virtue of a small gauge wire from a screw on the generator case to either a terminal on the regulator or by connecting to one of the regulator mounting screws. This ground is used only to provide a direct connection to eliminate any potential voltage difference in grounds that might be cause by a poor connection in the mounting bracket or sheetmetal. This reference is needed so the regulator knows exactly what voltage the generator is producing without any added resistance due to a poor metal to metal connection. It is not designed to carry any high current such as that needed to operate the starter or headlights etc.

A heavy ground strap or wire from the generator is not used on any Packards I have seen but it certainly would not hurt if you wanted to add something like a short braided strap between the generator mounting ear to the frame.