Identifying Chrysler Alternators (1960-1976)
Reality when dealing with replacements, especially emergencies.
An isolated-field alternator can be used with a pre-70 voltage regulator circuit by grounding one field terminal.
This is generally OK to do. Normally this is fine.
Here's an example.
Picked this up at a junkyard when the alt in my 67 siezed up. Added the wire to ground and it was good to go.
With later revised squareback and 'high performance' alternators its possible the field current demands will be in excess of the regulator's capacity.
The other thing to watch out for with higher capacity alternators is high rates of battery recharging. Alternators are often replaced when they stop working. This generally means the battery is low on charge. A battery with low charge and a high output alternator can be hard on the wiring and the battery. Even a standard alternator can cause damage. That's discussed in detail in this thead and others.
Finally, as mentioned previously, unscrupulous rebuilders hack up these alternators in various ways.
@67Dart273 shows examples in this post why it is critical to check the terminal connections for how they are, or are not, insulated from the housing.
charging system blues
Reality when dealing with replacements, especially emergencies.
An isolated-field alternator can be used with a pre-70 voltage regulator circuit by grounding one field terminal.
This is generally OK to do. Normally this is fine.
Here's an example.
Picked this up at a junkyard when the alt in my 67 siezed up. Added the wire to ground and it was good to go.
With later revised squareback and 'high performance' alternators its possible the field current demands will be in excess of the regulator's capacity.
The other thing to watch out for with higher capacity alternators is high rates of battery recharging. Alternators are often replaced when they stop working. This generally means the battery is low on charge. A battery with low charge and a high output alternator can be hard on the wiring and the battery. Even a standard alternator can cause damage. That's discussed in detail in this thead and others.
Finally, as mentioned previously, unscrupulous rebuilders hack up these alternators in various ways.
@67Dart273 shows examples in this post why it is critical to check the terminal connections for how they are, or are not, insulated from the housing.
charging system blues