Generator vs Alternator

I have an alternator that is made to look like the original. It is a Powermaster. It is expensive, but I, too, hate the way most alternators look. https://www.speedwaymotors.com/Powe...31-Ford-Model-A-Alternator-6-Volt,229559.html


I have been very happy with my alternator. I also have halogen headlights on my 1930 TS. If I was a better electrical guy, I might be able to have a generator work in my situation, but the alternator works great. There is someone who makes an alternltor using an old generator case. I bought one off of this site, but have not yet installed it on my 28.
 
They do make a alternater that looks like a generator called power gen co. I have used one for four years, along with the new logo lights. people are actually blinking there lights at me at night.
 
Bratton’s has one in their catalog, a little pricey though.
 

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David R. said:
How do you re-silver?
Click to expand...
If most of the silver is still present you can use Medallion or Nushine silver solution to restore the original finish. They claim it will plate brass directly, but the result is pretty orange. If most of the plating is worn down to the brass you'd have to nickel plate the reflectors first (lots of online how-to videos) before using the silver solution. Probably best to buy the aluminized reflectors from Bratton's and be done with it.
 
I do a fair amount of night driving. I have an original generator. I have it adjusted just a little hotter than the books recommend, so I have greater output. I also use 32/50 bulbs. I think the best thing I did was upgrade to Bratton's reflectors. They are worth the extra money.

Once you get it all set make sure that you aim and focus everything correctly. Not hard to do.

The one other thing I did was put in the LED tail/brake lights to make me more visible from the rear.

Good luck,

Ken
 
I tried to run a generator because I want my car to be as original as possible. I finally switched to an alternator. It works much better. No cut out problems, better battery maintenance , better lights. If your car is a show car I would use the generator. For a go car the alternator is easier / safer / more reliable. Just my opinion.
 
Working on the generator. I turned and under cut commutator, and gave windings some insulating varnish. Cleaned up fields and insulated. Waiting on some new bearings etc.,. I thought the brush holders were ok but noticed one of the insulator washers burnt a little.
 

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They also have the LED replacement bulbs that fit in the original sockets. If you're not concerned about the authenticity of the bulb and want bright beams with low amperage draw, then that could also be a consideration. The bulbs are quite a bit more costly than originals though.
 
I run a 1935 Chevy truck generator (935-C Delco-Remy) on my '31 roadster.:p It is considered a "heavy duty" generator because it has ventilation holes cast in both end caps. I've owned 2 '29 Chevy's so I learned how to work on early Chevy electrical systems. An aftermarket adapter bracket was used to mount it to the car. The box the bracket came in states: "For real service use a bigger generator on your Model A & AA Fords." I'm guessing the bracket came out around the middle to later 30's. The fuse on the cut-out
is used to protect the electrical system if there is a short in the headlights or horn. I believe the Delco genny puts out approx. 5 more amps then the Ford one. Note: 6 cylinder Chevy's were negative ground. I still use the positive ground on my "A" roadster. Generator's produce power they don't care if it is called negative or positive.:eek::)


Bob-A:D
 

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In later 1931 Ford came out with optional high output generator, actually several versions, one for passenge bus, one for cars with radios, and one for standrive delivery
The previous post shows a "chevy" generator that is longer, the back of it hitting or very close to coolant return pipe, there's a different water inlet and lower pipe to clear the longer generator to be used with the high output generators--- so far I have found 2 of them, they have more of angle down, the generators have been elusive
 
Well after reviewing all the responses, I have decided to complete my original generator rebuild and go with it. I want it as close to original as I can keep it. If the stock lights aren’t good enough I would think trying the LED lamps would be the next upgrade. We will see how it goes! Thanks for all the responses.
 
I think you're making a good choice. These generators are bullet-proof with an original cut-out.

I'm not a purist, but, to me, an alternator just ain't right.
 
I installed the Fun Projects EVR on my stock generator and am extremely happy with it - it looks original, but limits the charging current to just what the battery needs. With the LogoLites LED headlight bulbs, and LED brake and tail lights, current draw is less than 2 amps with the headlights on. I’ve adjusted the charging rate on the generator to 8 amps max and have had no issues.
 
I have an alternator that looks like a generator complete with a cutout just for show.
The alternator is inside a model A generator housing. Made by Russ Evans. A little pricey but well worth it.
 
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