6 Volt Regulator Questions

Posted by Jim McDermaid On 2012/11/12 11:53:35

I like driving my 1954 Cavalier to work soooooo.

I had noticed that now they turn off the sun before I drive home from work at night, that when I shut off the car at home the charge light was staying lit.

I'm of course driving with the headlights, radio, and front heater all on.

I examined the voltage regulator which looks like an aftermarket modern replacement, and the contacts on the cutout relay are so skimpy I would expect it only good for about 10 Amps.

When I was taking these things apart back in my youth (misspent) I recall very heavy contacts on the 6 volt cutout relay and usually two or three. I have a thorough understanding of how this all works.

The cutout contact had been heated to probably cherry red and was annealed to the point it was as soft as spaghetti.

I would expect all these 6 volt loads could easily be pulling as much as 40 Amps when all running.

I bought a new old stock regulator on eBay (waiting for arrival) that is rated at 6 Volt, 56 Amps, positive ground, indicated for Packard and others. I don't know if it is specific for (my car has Delco), or Autolite, or if it actually makes a difference. The regulator is not a brand I recognize but it is from the era.

I can't think positive or negative ground would change the operation of a Regulator.

Anyone here wish to comment on my plan here?

Jim