Another Alternator question

[diablo03]

I have read this thread in the FAQ and multiple others, but I can't seem to find where people talk about the actual alternator you walk into the parts store and ask for. I also couldn't find which connector post we need 9 o clock or 3 o clock.

I know we have the mounting points at 6 and 12.

I don't want to have to cut the new alternator like the FAQ has, so I think I want a 10SI.

I want to make sure I have all the info I need before I take the dive. I feel like I'm over thinking this and just need to do it. It doesn't look that bad.

[chevylookin]

What engine is it mounting to? The 10SI is a one wire hook up straight to the horn relay/ battery junction, right? Internal regulator.

[diablo03]

So I'm hooking it to a 292 I6 in a 1963 C10. I'm pretty sure the 10SI Is the 3 wire. but that's why I'm not sure.

I'm looking for the 3 wire hook up....someone here must have done this.

[chevylookin]

Hi Diablo, do you have and old alternator on there or are you a generator? 1963 was the first year they started with alternators. Are you doing a conversion or are you having issues with your charging system?

[diablo03]

I have an alternator with an external regulator. I don't know whats wrong with it but it doesn't charge (voltage is still 12 with the engine running) . Instead of messing with it, I figured I should just change to a better one.

[chevylookin]

Did you test the alt and voltage regulator yet? Make sure the contacts in your VR are clean, gapped. Not rusted and dirty. All your alt wires are good, tight and clean.

[diablo03]

yup took everything apart and cleaned it all, not getting a volt out the back of the alternator. It looks original, so I think its shot.

[chevylookin]

If you just need a replacement alternator, take it to autozone and they will have a replacement at the counter 99.9% likely. It is still a very common alt.

[diablo03]

but i want to upgrade the externally regulated alternator to a 3 wire internally regulated one. Which wouldn't be a direct replacement.

[chevylookin]

Have you seen this? :
http://www.madelectrical.com/electri...elcoremy.shtml

[diablo03]

thats amazing......exactly what i was looking for. now does anyone know if we use the 3 or 9 o clock position?

would assume its 9 since my alternator is on the drivers side

[chevylookin]

ARe you planning on adding any accessories or a big stereo/ amplifier? I still have my 3 wire 63 amp external regulator on my 230 I6. I run an electric cooling fan and a sizeable stereo/ amplifier and I never have charging issues (look for wood). I have never done the conversion but I have seen guys do it when the jump the old regulator harness to keep the guage or dummy light working. Our alternator mountings are at 12 o'clock on the inline 6's. Tell the counter guy this (according to the article):10SI, 63 amp, at 12:00 (AC-DELCO # 321-43, Lester #7127-12)

Tell the auto parts counter person that “The alternator is for a 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix, 8cylinder 5.7L (350R) engine, with air conditioning and with H.B.L.” (H.B.L. = Heated Back Light–meaning rear window defroster)

[Heater63]

Just like Chevylookin said: MadElectrical covers it extensively. "one wire is for tractors"

I would recommend a more modern and better cooling 12SI 3 wire. He covers 3 wire vs 1 wire and your clocking questions in his article.

I think I am using a 78amp 12SI out of a 80's Firebird

[vince1]

What I did. Unplug voltage regulator. Jumper brown to blue. At alternator connect blue to #1 on alternator. Connect old (#12?) red output wire to #2 on alternator. Run new heavier 8 ga. alternator output wire back up to horn relay junction. You could also upgrade with a heavier wire from horn relay junction to the battery.

Check out the electrical forum for write ups and drawings from the pros.