Alternator Wires - some not needed?
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Instructor
Joined: Nov 2009
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From: Leesburg VA
Alternator Wires - some not needed?
I just ordered a chrome Powermaster alternator since I'm changing to a serpentine belt system and moving the alternator to the passenger side. Tech support says that I only need the one power wire going to the alternator. Currently I have the one power wire and the two wires that are in the side, with a plug. He said the two wires on the plug just go to the external regulator and I can remove them.
Does this sound right to you all?
Thanks, Allen
Does this sound right to you all?
Thanks, Allen
Le Mans Master
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From: mount holly NC
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Drifting
Joined: Apr 2007
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From: Cameron Park CA
I respectfully disagree. Carefully read the link in Peterbuilt's post above. The sense wire is essential to ensure the correct charging rate for the entire car electrical system. When you use a one-wire alternator, the regulator only senses the alternator output, it "ignores" the car's requirement.
GM wouldn't have wasted money on the sense wire it weren't necessary for proper operation of the electrical system with all the various loads.
The only good reason to use a one-wire alternator is its simple to wire.
Pete
GM wouldn't have wasted money on the sense wire it weren't necessary for proper operation of the electrical system with all the various loads.
The only good reason to use a one-wire alternator is its simple to wire.
Pete
Last edited by PeteZO6; Dec 30, 2014 at 07:55 PM.
Le Mans Master
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From: Santa Ana CA
Yes, you can just unplug them and tuck them back, or cut them off for that matter if you never intend to go back. You can also remove the regulator and its plug as they are no longer used.
I've had a 1-wire on my '64 for many years with just a red wire going to the horn relay and I grounded the black wire to the case, though it isn't necessary. Works fine.
I've had a 1-wire on my '64 for many years with just a red wire going to the horn relay and I grounded the black wire to the case, though it isn't necessary. Works fine.
