I agree, that on paper anyway it probably looks like enough output, at
least at max rpm which is where the 30-something amp rating is given
(I seem to remember reading it falls below 20 amps at idle, however).
But grim experience has taught me that with the mighty resistance
often offered by even fairly new harnesses (I've seen many a harness
drop the voltage from 14+ to below 12V, just through the wiring!), not
to mention aging grounds and aging accessories (esp. the wiper), that
the practical world requires a better alternator than the 35amp
variety offered by Lucas (and Chrysler too in the old days, bless
their hearts, until they doubled the output and fixed their ailing
reputation). Operating at or near capacity is just not the way I like
to go with an alternator, but I can't argue with the concept that if
it aint broke don't fix it.......unless of course it's gonna bite me
late some rainy night with the lights and wiper and blower on, and a
damp ignition not quite able to zap the humid mix, etc. etc.
Regards -
MD
---Daniel1312@aol.com wrote:
>
> In a message dated 15/2/1999 3:42:41PM, mdietsche@yahoo.com writes:
>
> << If you've ever seen your Midget's
> alternator field light blinking in time with your turn signal you
> should realize the Midget needs more juice. My current plan for
> trouble-free Midget wiring: 60 amp alternator, >>
>
>
> If the alternator field light blinks in time with the turn signal I
doubt that
> it is the fault of the alternator. I run a reduced speed pulley on
a Lucas
> ACR alternator and with 100 Watt dipped beam headlights and turn
(indicator)
> signal on I have never seen the alternator field light blink.
>
> What is more likely is that the alternator is struggling to supply
more juice
> because it is near the end of its life, rather than it not being big
enough in
> the first place.
>
> On the Spridget the starter motor draws most current, followed by
the lights
> and then the horn. (or maybe horn then lights), not the turn signals.
>
> Typically a Spridget alternator (I think more than one type were
fitted to
> Spridgets) kicks about 34 Amps, you can get one similiar in
appearance (MGB?)
> that kicks out 36 Amps.
>
> Unless you have 2 x 100 watt main beam lamps and 4 x 100 watt spot
lights AND
> everything else electrical in the car switched on at the same time
you just
> don't need all that power. And, if you did you are probably drawing
on the
> engine's power to the tune of 6bhp to run the current.
>
> Daniel1312
>
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