Generator Vs. Alternator ?

[joswald]

I have a 1964 Comet 202 with a generator. Can someone please explain what the difference is between the generator versus the alternator? What are the pros versus the cons of each?

[skoker]

A generator produces DC voltage proportional to how fast it turns -- the faster it spins, the higher the voltage. An alternator produces more of an AC signal, so it's less noticeable how much the voltage changes with shaft speed. The down side of an alternator is that it needs a rectifier to make the AC voltage into a DC voltage (usually around 14.5 volts for a "12 volt" system), but it's much easier to keep a steady output voltage (over a range of speeds) from an alternator than from a generator.

[tomb22]

You can buy a 1 wire alternator and connect the wire to the battery side of the starter solenoid an be good to go. They come with a built in voltage regulator. So easy to install and get rid of a whole lot of old wiring and regulator.
tom

[Groover]

If you want to remain authentic, stick with the Gen. If you don't care about that or you're planning to add some larger accessories (kicking stereo, undercarriage lighting, etc.) consider switching to Alt.

Generator Pros:
Looks authentic
You already have one

Generator Cons:
Harder to come by if it fails on the road and you're at an Auto Zone
Doesn't support as much electric load.

I say stick with it until it fails and then consider the switch.

Your mileage may vary, some restrictions apply, void where prohibited, not available in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico.

[popscomet]

to me ...it's important to always keep a good grade of battery in stalled,,,,my 64 has been on the same gen that I started with way back in the early 90's,and my comet has always been driven,,,as in a daily driver for several yrs,,,,,,of course I do not have big power radio's or stuff like that...that has never interested me ….I rather hear the engine as someone singing thru his nose jmo…..pop

[bmmaurer]

Or go with an alternator that looks just like your stock generator for that retro look but it's an alternator... bit expensive though !

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/pwm- ... gJac_D_BwE

Comet Bruce

[Groover]

Phew! that is pricey.

[popscomet]

Phew! that is pricey.

that's the biggest reason there is not one on my comet,,,,pop