GM/Delphi Alternator Wiring

[mudtruck44]

I'm wiring up a second alternator on a buggy and I'm using an alternator from an '02 Grand Prix. I know that some of the late model GM stuff requires a resistor on the excite wire. I don't really know why, but I've heard that you'll damage the alternator without the resistor. Anyone have info on this?

[bigsilly]

Originally Posted by mudtruck44

I'm wiring up a second alternator on a buggy and I'm using an alternator from an '02 Grand Prix. I know that some of the late model GM stuff requires a resistor on the excite wire. I don't really know why, but I've heard that you'll damage the alternator without the resistor. Anyone have info on this?

I went through this on mine. We wound up putting a light on it as an indicator light. This solved the problem, after I toasted a few alternators.

Read this link about converting an old Ford tractor, it actually explains the light and why it is a good idea.
http://www.myfordtractors.com/delco.shtml

[mudtruck44]

You used an LED or a standard bulb?

[clastic]

Originally Posted by mudtruck44

You used an LED or a standard bulb?

I hate to answer for the man but as low as a draw as an LED has I'd think it would almost have to be a regular bulb.

[JohnnyJ]

In that era, I think it'd be the cs130 alternator, not the older si10. The plugs are a bit different between the two.

http://www.hotrodlane.cc/newhtml/smallalt.html

If you use the warning light, it should be a bulb to make the resistance right. We had found a small light at the local parts store that wasn't any bigger than an led warning light.

[bigsilly]

Originally Posted by mudtruck44

You used an LED or a standard bulb?

Standard bulb, used a small amber light like a trailer side marker.

[some zilch]

i just did a similar setup; albeit on a 1939 ford 9n tractor 12v conversion, but i used a 194 bulb and soldered the bulb holder right in line w/the wiring for the alternator. early '90s dodge trucks used 194s as the front side marker bulb

[chevy_man]

194 bulbs are used in everything, everywhere.


But, I'd do a small resistor in parallel with an LED just so it won't ever burn out and has resistance. Also, there is a HUGE tech article on here.

http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/Wiring/Part2/

[JamisonWorkshop]

I have done it with an 1156 bulb. If the bulb is on no charge. Works great.

[Jak Flash]

Originally Posted by chevy_man

194 bulbs are used in everything, everywhere.


But, I'd do a small resistor in parallel with an LED just so it won't ever burn out and has resistance. Also, there is a HUGE tech article on here.

http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/Wiring/Part2/

So in the Billavista write-up it says I can use a resistor instead of a light, so I plan on doing that. But my question to add to this is does it have to be on switched power? Can I hook it up directly to the battery? What adverse reactions can I possibly experience other than battery drain?

[SOPOB&D]

Originally Posted by mudtruck44

I'm wiring up a second alternator on a buggy and I'm using an alternator from an '02 Grand Prix. I know that some of the late model GM stuff requires a resistor on the excite wire. I don't really know why, but I've heard that you'll damage the alternator without the resistor. Anyone have info on this?

jesse, go to napa ask em for a amber 12v push in light, (same light Howell uses for a check engine) An LED will NOT work and will burn up the alt. Youll run one wire from the alt to one side of the bulb and keyed 12v to the other the light will illum with the key on and as soon as u start the engine and begin charging it will go out. Sorry i cant remember the part number for the bulb. If you go on painless's web site they have the schematics for the "early" and "late" alt plugs one is square and one is more oval with a bulged end. Hope that helps ya