I have a 1961 190 b I have replaced the generator with an alternator w/ self regulator that worked for a year but generator light is dimly lit when running. The alternator doesnt appear to be charging battery now. Has any one replaced generator with alternator before for these vintage cars? If so what kind should I be using? (old ford chevy i. e.)
Could there be a short causing generator light to be dimly lit when running? Please help

I have to point out the common term used for those lights. "Idiot lights". No, I'm not calling you an idiot. Put a voltmeter on the battery and check the voltage while running. If it's 13.0 or above then the alternator is working.

You may not be energizing the wire which operates the light on the original circuit. The old generator had a regulator which supplied power to the wire.

bad regulator or bad diode in the alternator. The light on the dash is actually part of the charging circuit. An oscilliscope will tell you in a few seconds.


Used alternators are plentiful. The fun part is just find one with the right
- Pully (1 belt or 2)
- Mounting lugs (short or long bolt on the top)
- electrical connections on back (1 big bolt; three round pins; three flat pins)

And then choose the number of amps. More is better.

-CTH

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