Cutout diode
- Thread starter Peter J
- Start date
ken ct
BANNED
/ I used 2 of them in a 36 cutout yrs ago,both burned out in a couple of mths. Went back to a used original with points and never had any more troubles.Still running today.OMO ken ct. new isnt always better!!!
Kurt in NJ
Well-known member
The polarity of the diode depends on wether you are using + ground, - ground, and how you are mounting it.
I don't remember what polarity diode I used, it came out of a 60s GM alt, it was a "press in " diode, I removed the innards of the cutout except for the frame, drilled a hole in it and pushed the diode in ---that was 35+ years ago, and it was a used diode from an alternator I was rebuilding that had some failed diodes so they all got replaced --it was a 35 amp alt, I have had my charging rate as high as 18 amps with 50cp bulbs, now I run 14-15 as max rate--I cut the rate back when I put in the 35 watt halogen bulbs.
The original generator 6V system has been very reliable for me, with long battery life using the headlights to prevent overcharging the battery
I don't remember what polarity diode I used, it came out of a 60s GM alt, it was a "press in " diode, I removed the innards of the cutout except for the frame, drilled a hole in it and pushed the diode in ---that was 35+ years ago, and it was a used diode from an alternator I was rebuilding that had some failed diodes so they all got replaced --it was a 35 amp alt, I have had my charging rate as high as 18 amps with 50cp bulbs, now I run 14-15 as max rate--I cut the rate back when I put in the 35 watt halogen bulbs.
The original generator 6V system has been very reliable for me, with long battery life using the headlights to prevent overcharging the battery
Afordman31
Well-known member
Peter J
Snyder's sells the Diode for $2.95
Part# A-10155-DIO
Page A-138
Here is a diagram for the installation of the same. I have installed this Diode in the original cutouts. The foreign cutouts are not the same as the original ones. If a person were to alter and add to the foreign ones I think it would work. You would have to add a piece of metal to hold the Diode. Much easier in the original one, as the bracket to hold it is already in the original
Snyder's sells the Diode for $2.95
Part# A-10155-DIO
Page A-138
Here is a diagram for the installation of the same. I have installed this Diode in the original cutouts. The foreign cutouts are not the same as the original ones. If a person were to alter and add to the foreign ones I think it would work. You would have to add a piece of metal to hold the Diode. Much easier in the original one, as the bracket to hold it is already in the original
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Ron in Quincy
Well-known member
I convert my own cutouts to a diode. I obtain the diodes from a local business who orders them for me. My A's are all 6 Volt positive ground. I use 30 Amp positive ground diodes and have never had a problem. The nice thing about using a diode is the fact they only pass current one way so if your battery becomes fully charged it will not burn out your generator.
You also don't have to worry about the relay sticking in the cutout which usually results with a battery going dead and wiring burning up.
If you decide to install a diode be sure to use a heat sink when soldering to avoid damage to the diode.
Just my opinion,
Ron
You also don't have to worry about the relay sticking in the cutout which usually results with a battery going dead and wiring burning up.
If you decide to install a diode be sure to use a heat sink when soldering to avoid damage to the diode.
Just my opinion,
Ron
Steve Plucker
BANNED
Plus a generator going to hell...Been there. I have used a diode since (1984) with no problem.
Pluck
Peter J
Well-known member
Thanks for the info guys. The diode seems definately the way to go (and cheaper than a regulator). While I was poking around I also found my gen output was about 2 volts so it looks like I'm going to grab my Les Andrews and get some experience in doing a rebuild. The wife says "well, isn't that why you got it anyway?".
Thanks again !
Pete
Thanks again !
Pete
Tom Wesenberg
Well-known member
The diode is cheaper than a voltage regulator because it's simply a one way valve for electricity. The voltage regulator is much more complex and controls the output voltage to a safe level and regulates the amps to just what's needed to maintain the battery, and any lights that are turned on. I won't run any of my Model A's, or any other old car without a voltage regulator. I even made one for my Northeast generator in my 1927 Dodge.