Alternator Wiring Question

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

01-28-2011, 12:55 PM

srgould41

Junior Member

Thread Starter

Join Date: Dec 2009

Posts: 87

Likes: 0

Received 1 Like on 1 Post

Alternator Wiring Question

I built a custom harness using a panel from Painless. I am using a 10SI alternator. Wiring diagrams I have fouind show either an idiot light or a resistor in the wire from the ingition switch to connector position 1 on the alternator.

I have not found an explanation for a resistor. I am not using a light, instead I have a voltage gauge. Currently the wire goes direct to the alt with no resistor or diode and the charging system works fine, engine shuts down normally, etc.

Is there a specific reason a resistor is needed? Anyone know?

Thanks

Reply Like

01-28-2011, 02:32 PM

NINÅ

Supreme Member

Join Date: Jan 2006

Location: Mooresville NC

Posts: 3,341

Likes: 0

Received 10 Likes on 10 Posts

Car: LOWERED ♦ CRIMSON METALFLAKE

Engine: ► 400 KUBES ◄

Transmission: 765R4

Axle/Gears: EATON POSI 4.56

Resistance Is Futile

Some alternator setups used an idiot light instead of a voltmeter, and in those configurations the exciter was sent to the light bulb.

A resistor was used in the same circuit in case the bulb burned out the alt would still work.

◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙
Happy Racing!
◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙◙

I Didn’t Jump The Start, The Flagman Was Late

.

Reply Like

01-28-2011, 02:36 PM

srgould41

Junior Member

Thread Starter

Join Date: Dec 2009

Posts: 87

Likes: 0

Received 1 Like on 1 Post

Re: Alternator Wiring Question

Oh, now that makes total sense. Why didn't I think of that! So if no light then no resistor is needed. My wire is a straight run from the ign through the painless panel to the alt.

Guess I'm good to go!

Thanks.

Reply Like