Re: [Amc-list] generators

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

Hmmm.... all the ones I have/had are the "long frame" type. The gen in the American is only 25A. I checked back to when gens were still used on AC equipped cars (55 Nash and 60 Rambler) -- they were only 45A tops. You shouldn't have a problem with the generator. Just remember to "excite" it when it's installed or it won't work. Pull out your 63 Classic TSM -- it still had a gen stock w/o ac (30A). The only possible problem I can see is it is possible for the generator to lose "excitation" if it sits for a long time, or is it just when the regulator goes bad? I've never had a problem with a generator except for having one wear to the point it needed rebuilding. That's all I ran in my American for 14 years! 

The voltage regulator is pretty standard. AFAIK there are really only two types -- Delco and Autolite. They do work differently, so you need to have the right one for the generator you have (should be Delco on the OHV, Autolite on L-head). They will interchange as the wiring is almost the same (I seem to recall that you have to reorder the wires at the regulator), but you have to change the regulator too. The regulators aren't hard to get now. While they used to be routinely adjusted, now they are simply pulled and replaced if not working correctly. It's mostly people just don't remember how to adjust/service an old fashioned regulator, but at least partly because of the time it would take vs. the cost of a new one. The hour most mechanics would charge to service and adjust one is more than to R&R a new one adjusted at the factory. I haven't bought one in... well... 10 years. Then they were about $35. 

You're good with electronics -- why not look at the wiring diagram of one of those things and make a little electronic box that will tuck inside the old regulator shell and attach to the existing terminals. You'd have to gut the old regulator, but might be a marketable project! 

------------------------------
Date: Mon, 24 Sep 2007 23:37:35 -0700
From: Tom Jennings <tomj@xxxxxxx>

Hey anyone know much about the Delco Remy generators AMC used? I know how 
they work and can rebuild one (commutators and carbon brushes and all 
that).

---

From: JOE FULTON <piper_pa20@xxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: [Amc-list] generators

I know that at least there were two models of the
Delco generator in the early 60s.  A short frame model
(probably low amp model 25? 20?) and a long frame
model.  The 62 Classic I parted out last year had a
long frame generator.  I think I have at least one of
each.  Email me with the Delco part number and I think
I'll look through my parts pile for a spare for you.
-- 
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars" 
Magazine (AMC)
For all AMC enthusiasts
http://farna.home.att.net/AMC.html
(free download available!)


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