Re: 51 generator rebuild

Posted by Hans Ahlness On 2015/8/6 13:24:45

your generator is pretty simple, so any decent shop can go through it for you. bearings/bushings as needed, brushes, turn and cut the commutator, paint. done.

the 12v question will bring out the long knives, as you've noticed by now. Pros of 12v: you can install reliable electronic ignition, if you don't ever want to check your points and condenser ever again (not too hard really). You can power a modern radio/stereo, your phone charger, that panel mounted GPS navigation system you want to install. If you want to add A/C (no simple task) then 12v is almost a must-have, unless you're a mechanical wizard of some sort (see HH56). All of your existing wiring, if serviceable, is oversized for 12v and so should be fine to carry the current. and you can get a jump start from anyone on the street if your car quits. Cons? you have to change out every light bulb. Some of your gauges might not work without some voltage changers. there is anecdotal evidence that your starter may now be too powerful for it's own good. you'll have to buy a new alternator, and change up the wiring and brackets a bit for that. You'll need to find a 12v heater fan.

depends then on just what you want to accomplish, and what mechanically needs to be done to the car anyway that involves the above stuff.