Re: Alternator Wiring Question

Posted by PackardV8 On 2012/8/19 6:47:08

Wire size:

I went out and looked at my 89 Caprice and 56 Exec.:
89 caprice (it has a delco alt) uses about a 8 gauge wire.
56 Executive (red wire at "B" post of voltage reg) uses about a 10 gauge wire.

So yes, LATE model factory alt set ups uses a larger wire. Most likely for because there is so much more accessory demand on cars built during the 80's as opposed to 50's.

If u want the larger wire then just run a larger wire or a smaller wire (used in conjunction with the oem Packad red wire) to compensate for the wire size differnce.

Much to do about nothing:

Just run the wire from the alternator to the red wire that originally connected to the oem Packard voltage regulator. Tape off the brown and blue wires, they become extraneous.

Give it a try. Check the max output specs of the one wire alt against the 30 amps of the oem Packard generator. If there is no more than 10 amps difference then the wire size probably not an issue unless u plan to add fog lites, extra horns or other high draw accessories.

wHAT WOULD I DO???? I'd just connect the alternator wire to the red wire at that went to the oem regulator. Your ammeter will work and u can monitor the electrical demand from there and then run the extra wire or bigger wire if necessary. That's what everyone else would do too.