Re: P.M. alternator

Posted by HH56 On 2017/4/25 21:37:01

The idea of an alternator under the car on a postwar model seems to be problematic because of the frame X being right where the power takeoff would need to be. That doesn't leave enough room for even a mini alternator to mount without doing some surgery and that is something I would rather not do.

As to AC components, there are apparently no longer any 6v clutches to be found and dual shaft 6v blower motors also seem to be extinct.

Sanden specs say the stock clutch will pull in at approx 7.3v and I know some are being used on 6v cars. It must work using the generator output voltage to pull in. If the generator is not putting out it's normal volt or so above regular battery voltage the clutch is inoperative. Dwight Heinmuller has the Sanden too and mentioned checking with a Sanden rep who said the compressor would work that way but it was his unofficial opinion as obviously he couldn't endorse the use. Dwight has factory AC in his 54 and had to replace a failed compressor. I don't know what others with Sandens on 6v are using for their AC units but aside from yours I know there are several others out there.

On the blower side, there are 6v single shaft heater motors readily available and I've played around with converting an Old Air single blower Hurricane unit to use one. It is adequate but not as fast or as powerful as the 12v motor -- I'd estimate it is about 10-15% slower. Its regular 12v 3 discreet speed motor will work on 6v but at that voltage, compared to the regular voltage, the high speed is more like medium and medium is more like low. The third or low speed is almost useless at 6v.

Is your Custom Auto unit the typical underdash hang on dual blower setup with the double shaft motor and does it appear to be running at a normal speed? If so, I am wondering if when the installation was done 6v motors were still available or perhaps the blower motor was rewound to work on 6v.