Our sbc engine has a 3 wire alternator on it, but I'm replacing it when we wire up the car, so we can go 1 or 3. What's the difference? Is one better than the other?
oldguy829 said:Doc. Decided to go 3 wire. We are putting A/C in it, plus a whopping sound system (this is for my 16 year old son), and I have experience with older cars, domestic and foreign, that dim the lights when you let off the gas, so it just seemed like the 3 wire was the ultimate system, and worth my effort to figure out how to wire it. Even if the difference isn't that drastic, I can't believe the "wiring" will be that drastic either.
Thanks again to everyone that contributed to the lesson.
Dave,bluesman123 said:I'm curious about why the lights dim on older cars when you run a 1-wire alternator. I think I have heard the the alternator does not "kick in" until the engine speed hits a certain point, but after that isn't the output determined by the system voltage? Why would an older car get dim lights at low engine speeds if the regulator is working correctly?
Man I wish I had seen this thread before I rewired my V8-Sonoma!! I just got a '71 Nova project, and would like to simplify the wiring when I re-do it.
Docvet, I think you're right down the street from me. I live in WC! :thumbup:
Dave
You can get rebuilds (NOT GM) from the parts store for like $20 to $60 bucks..and not take a chance, will it work, will it arrive? and if not, can just go back and get a replacement..over the counter..oldguy829 said:Great information. How about going a step farther. There are 100 amp, chrome, 3 wire alternators on ebay for around $75.00. they are listed as "GM" not Delco.Is this a desirable piece, or junk? how can I tell? .
There is a Thread on this forum, titled " Wiring harness, which do you prefer?" Has about 300 replays on it, about the pros and cons of different harness kits..I suggest you go there and read the information first hand from those that have used them..Ron Francis (owner of Ron Francis harness's ) and the owner of EZ 2 install are both on that thread too answering any TECH questions you may have..Fatrodder also lists a 21 circuit (more than I need) wiring harness for around $120.00. Is there a big difference between the quality of this system and a "name" brand? or is the "ease of installation/tech support" the difference?
Will I need to also purchase the terminal blocks/relays/fusible links etc. recommended in the articles no matter which harness I buy?
Most of those harness come with very easy to use Instruction manuals, some more involved than others (this is where that other thread will be helpful in deciding) Actually if you have rudimentary Wire skills, you SHOULD be able to do the job no problem! (Solder, strip, read and follow a schematic, wire color coding , wire gauging) I always suggest go to the car with the instructions and read, and read until you can do it in your sleep before you start..know where everything is supposed to be..and if you get stuck..were all here to help if we can!I feel capable of following instructions and wiring the car, but maybe not up to adding relays and terminals blocks in the right places, or upgrading the wiring size for a backseat battery mount, without some very specific instructions. What would you recommend for the prolific do it yourselfer, with limited electrcial expertise.