Changing your alternator is a simple way to update your charging system. It helps fix some persisting car problems such as drops in horsepower or poor power transmission that causes the vehicle to stop regularly. Once you install a new charging system, these problems will be fixed and your car can begin working as well as it should. Cars with a dynamo system mostly have this problem and the component is not enough to power the electric demands of your vehicle.
A basic understanding of how the car charging system works makes the process simpler. The dynamo and the alternator have different working mechanisms. Their cable connections are also different, and you thus have to be careful while making the connections. Incorrect cable connection will cause power cuts to the electric components of the car, and it might fail to start.
This is how you can update your charging system and connect all its cables correctly.
#1. Disconnecting the Dynamo and Battery
Before the upgrade, you have to disconnect the dynamo and unmount it from the engine block. A right-handed bracket holds it in place and that ensures it doesn’t come into contact with other components. Remove the drive belt to free the dynamo completely once the bracket is removed.
Since the dynamo and alternator are of different sizes, they will not fit perfectly into the empty position. However, some cars will have a second mounting point on which you can attach the alternator. If it doesn’t, you can get a new mounting bracket and install it into the space before installing the alternator. You should attach it to the engine block to ensure components and cables from the alternator don’t touch the vehicle’s bodywork.
#2. Mounting the Alternator
You can proceed to mount your alternator once you have identified the secondary mounting points or have installed a new mounting bracket. Begin by adjusting the rear mount on the alternator to create enough room for the front part to fit in well.
Insert the alternator and it is bound to fit in perfectly. Once done, fasten the bolts to hold the alternator in place to the engine block. This is a crucial step when you update the charging system on your car. The crankshaft will be rightly in place and ready for connection to the new alternator. It will work well as long as the alternator has been installed correctly and taken up all the necessary space from the previously installed dynamo.
#3. Making the Cable Connections
When upgrading from a dynamo to an alternator, you should know that they have different power requirements. Their cable setup is also different. It should be connected differently for it to work and in accordance with the manufacturer. Additionally, ensure you have proper cables to handle this jump in power from the previously installed dynamo. Firstly, connect an eye connection on one end of the alternator and a multi-connector to the other end of the device.
Now, attach the eye end to the battery’s live terminal. Ensure it is firmly in place to prevent slipping and coming into contact with other parts as it could cause short-circuiting. Connect the other end with the multi-connector to the earth terminal on your alternator. The alternator should pivot freely to create enough room from which you can attach the generator drive belt. This belt will be replaced if it is too tight and the previous one doesn’t connect.
#4. Connecting the Alternator to the Ignition Warning Light
Connecting the alternator to the car’s ignition warning light is the final step of the process. It can also be connected to the live battery terminal or the input terminal on your starter solenoid. The previously installed cables for the dynamo will have to be replaced as they cannot sustain the power requirements of this alternator replacement.
You can thus get 97/.012 cables for your new installation. You should ensure it is long enough to connect without remaining suspended as it could tag on a moving component on the car’s bonnet. Attach a connector to the ends of the cable for better fastening and better power transmission. It should be connected to the + terminal for a stable connection and power transmission.
Secure the cable with an insulating cable as you run it to the live points of the battery. The starter solenoid can also be connected here. Connect the cables previously connected to the F terminal on the dynamo to the IND terminal on the alternator. Connect the other cable to the WL terminal on the alternator, and the setup will be complete. This is how to update your charging system. Ensure the voltage regulator remains intact as it will help ensure the setup works well and there isn’t an overload that could cause sparking.
Where can you Find the Regulator for your car?
The best option is to get it from your car dealer. They know the exact car model you are driving and will thus select the right alternator for you. Additionally, some dealerships will offer installation at a lower cost, and you can thus make some savings. They will also give you a guarantee of its performance, and in case you get horsepower drops or any challenges, you will get free repairs.
However, if you want to save some money, you can purchase your alternator from a scrapyard. All you need is your car’s model and details on the alternator you want. They will, however, not give you guarantees, and your alternator may fail to achieve its purpose. You will thus end up spending more to make the necessary repairs. This is how to update your charging system and have your car working as well as new. It is simple and convenient, and if you have some knowledge of installations, you can complete it in no time.
Sources:
