Power house generator

sturgis 39

sturgis 39

BANNED
I have a power house generator that is in sad shape. I am presently running a six volt generator and I have no complaints. Has anybody tired to install a motorcycle alternator or generator in a power house case? I have seen some small alternators and I am not sure what the operating voltage is on motor cycles.
 
I am thinking of the same thing.

Mounting a small alternator inside a powerhouse body.

The shape is similar.
 
It would take a lot of work and since the powerhouse is not an open case the alternator couldn't get cooling air and it's safe output would be greatly reduced.

A stock powerhouse can put out 15 amps safely which is more than enough for good headlights and keeping the battery charged.

Are you planning to install A/C and need more amps?

Have you checked the nice small black alternator used on John Deere lawn tractors. That would look much better (less out of place) than the GM alternators many use, and it puts out 45 amps, which is enough for A/C.
 
Tom, I would like to refit my 5 brush powerhouse with your electronic reg, but i am sure my field coils are shorted somewhere, so I am loathe to spend money and have instant smoke.
 
pooch said:
Tom, I would like to refit my 5 brush powerhouse with your electronic reg, but i am sure my field coils are shorted somewhere, so I am loathe to spend money and have instant smoke.
Click to expand...

Bert's in Denver has field coils. I've rewrapped field coils by using 1/2" wide black bias tape from the fabric store.

You can check for shorts by using a 6 volt battery charger with an amp meter on it. Unscrew the ground wire for the field coils, then connect one battery charger lead to the case and the other lead to either end of the field windings. There should be NO amps, (zero continuity). Then connect the two charger leads to the two ends of the field windings. A 5 brush field should draw about 2 amps on 6 volts, and a 3 brush powerhouse should draw about 3 amps.
 
I would just like to add a plug for Tom's regulators. I am running four of them, including one Powerhouse and they have performed very well. I like the Powerhouse because they seem to put out more current at a 45 MPH cruise and I can run at night without worrying about a "zero" or slightly minus charge. The later generators seem to "peak" at under 45 (3.78 rear axle) and won't hold a plus charge for night driving with the 32-32 headlight bulbs at any speed over 42. Would be interesting to hear Tom's comments about the two styles of generators. Gar Williams
 
Last edited:
Aerocraft said:
I would just like to add a plug for Tom's regulators. I am running four of them, including one Powerhouse and they have performed very well. I like the Powerhouse because they seem to put out more current at a 45 MPH cruise and I can run at night without worrying about a "zero" or slightly minus charge. The later generators seem to "peak" at under 45 (3.78 rear axle) and won't hold a plus charge for night driving with the 32-32 headlight bulbs at any speed over 42. Would be interesting to hear Tom's comments about the two styles of generators. Gar Williams
Click to expand...

On the generator tester I made I have 4 bulbs each is 6 volts and draws 5 amps. I can turn on any number of them and find any Model A generator can handle two bulbs fine, but will have a slight discharge with 3 five amp bulbs lit at the same time. I'll have to install a long style generator on my car and try it some time.

Right now I am using the stock 21 c.p. headlight bulbs and a powerhouse, and am never in the discharge, unless I set the idle down lower than normal and am at a stop light with the brake pedal down.
 
I also have one of Tom's regulators in a powerhouse he restored for me. I put it into service this past April. It worked very good. FWIW: As part of the restoration, Tom went through the whole generator...even painted it. It looks as good as it works!
Thanks Tom....

Good Day!
Dave in MN
 
Tom Wesenberg said:
It would take a lot of work and since the powerhouse is not an open case the alternator couldn't get cooling air and it's safe output would be greatly reduced.

A stock powerhouse can put out 15 amps safely which is more than enough for good headlights and keeping the battery charged.

Are you planning to install A/C and need more amps?

Have you checked the nice small black alternator used on John Deere lawn tractors. That would look much better (less out of place) than the GM alternators many use, and it puts out 45 amps, which is enough for A/C.
Click to expand...

I do not plan to install air conditioning. I just do not like the looks of an alternator on a model A engine. I am fine with me 6 volt generator. A lot of people ask why I do not install an alternator and other goofy things. I just tell them I am not trendy and I do not need the newest gadgets.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top