Posted by Tim from 68.2.137.219 (ip68-2-137-219.ph.ph.cox.net) on Friday, April 12, 2002 at 12:54PM :
In Reply to: Re: Chebby 1 wire alternator number posted by Tim in Indiana from 216.241.154.224 (arc1-96.lp.kconline.com) on Friday, April 12, 2002 at 10:46AM :
Be very careful when installing an alternator that requires an exciter wire. Many vehicles that are equipped with a charging gauge use resistance wire that is hot when the ignition is on. If you are converting, rather than installing a ballast resistor, get a nice Red Dash mounted warning light. Wire the light in SERIES from the ignition circuit to the alternator. When the engine is not running but the ignition is on, the red light will glow. When the engine starts, the light will go out. If the alternator is malfunctioning while the engine is running, the red light will glow indicating a charging problem. When this light is hooked in series, it uses the filament in the bulb as the resistor, and will not damage the alternator regulator.
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