Exciting a Delco 3 Wire Alternator

This is not a "how to" video simply because there are an immeasurable number of ways to do the same thing and I am not trying to preach to anyone. There are plenty of much more informative videos on the Tube made by people that are much better versed than I. This is just one of the ways I operate a Delco alternator on antique tractors that's not a 'one wire' system.

Instead of blasting me on what you think is not good about this video, post a link in the comments to your own video explaining what you do and why you do it. Like I say, don't do as I say and definitely don't do as I do. You are entering into this arena at your own risk. Bear in mind this is mostly meant to be entertaining because I have no qualms about being just a regular guy that plays in the dirt.

In reality this is a private video to a buddy in Canada helping him figure out a problem with his old tractor and it was easier for him to see to just make it public. lol

I really don't think people read the descriptions anyway...except Alice. Private joke.

[FromSteelToWood]

Many thanks Tractorman44! I am very impressed you did that video in such a short time, just for me! I'll give it a try as soon as I can get the Case inside the garage. Be sure I'll make a video of it! Thanks again!
P.S. I always read the video description!

[Totogita]

This is the best explanation that I have seen so far on the web.

[choda]

This diode fix also worked with my series 2a Land Rover. Dynamo to Alternator conversion with regular bulb in the dash. Engine wouldn't shut off with key. Fixed now. Thanks!

[GmaAlice]

No nay sayer here, just an old Gmaw that loves to learn something new every day. Your description box info is awesome. Tractor Troll be darned in my opinion and probably don't even take time to read a description box. If they'd take time to listen to understand instead of listening to reply they might learn something beneficial. All my best to your Mrs. Hope y'all have a good day!

[GPOutdoors]

Good evening T44! That was really helpful and one to keep in my files for later. Well explained and makes a lot of sense. Man, Radio Shack was my absolute favourite store when I was a kid. We had one in our local little plaza in town and when my mom would take us shopping, I would hang out in the Radio Shack store while she was doing groceries. I got my very first Multimeter build kit from there when I was young. So excited to get home and solder all the components together and watch it work. Sad to say we don't have them here anymore- probably for a good 30 years now. Thanks for the instructional. Love your videos. And thanks for the walk down memory lane. LOL. Cheers!

[RRaucina]

Thanks, good tips. My ford 655c has had no output for year. Soon as I flashed it with a hot lead, went from 12 to 14.5v. finally found the exciter wire off the ignition switch. then, found the battery sensor with cut wires and fixed that. this unit apparently wont charge with out at least 200 ohms of resistance on that outer terminal that goes into the regulator on the alternator.

[alanbloodworth]

Thanks, I just did this conversion. I thought terminal one just provided a ground for the dummy light and left it unhooked. Needless to say things were not charging. Just ran a quick test and it's working now. I'll create a permanent circuit in the morning. Thanks again!

[rtchow]

this is exactly what i was looking for to connect my 1 wire alternator for my 1952 Willys CJ3A. It had generator but previous person did a half hearted job converting to 12V system with the bad alternator still mounted. anyway i cut the chase. I order the two wire plug (with red and white wire) that goes into the alternator that has with embedded diode. It was good to know the purpose of the diode is to allow the volt only travel one way out and it prevent from going back to the alternator, otherwise it will fry the battery when alternator keeps charging the battery beyond the capacity. Thank you for the great video and information provided. Bob

[donaldmccracken]

Great video on wiring my alternator up! Very simply and well explained!

[svdido.sailingalbionswater]

I believe you've just explained that so well that I now have the confidence to tackle an issue I have with my marinised kubota engine. Brilliant video sir. Many thanks for posting it. It was exactly the information I was looking for.

[kitasuhill]

What a clear and calming presentation !! Thanks a bunch ! - another Canadian

[senna]

Thanks for the common sense approach. You helped me go racing!

[iamdjnam]

Thank you for the video. I have a 1971 Allis Chalmers that wasn’t charging. Purchased 2 one wire alternators and both wouldn’t charge. Definitely trying this out.

[philliphall]

Thanks for a reminder, seems it’s hard to keep track of what all I’ve done over 65 years
Yes I connected it to the ing switch 😊

[MickyMay]

Fantastic. I have MF 135 diesel and have been trying to make this work for years. You gave a very clear explanation of it all and I am about to give it a go. All the options on wiring and low rpm exciter where helpful as well.

[Jamesjghome]

Love you and your disposition .
Freedom

[daveknowshow]

great video! Joe is a wonderful man! your a good friend to share this so quickly.

[houndsmanone]

Tractorman, love the knowledgeable information. I too learned from you and Joe. I don't have an older tractor but I surely enjoyed the conversation between you and Joe. Great stuff (we learn from this). This is what I think good sharing of brain waves is all about (smile). Thanks for viewing my channel and you're among a good group of helpful and considerate folks on YouTube. You don't have to be a tractor person though I sure do like your call-sign (smile). Have a good day and look forward to viewing more of your channel. You have some nice videos. 👍.

[treeroofgrass]

Great info! I’m planning to make a remote controlled push mower and had seen other videos where people put a GM alternator to keep the battery charged (since the wheelchair motors drive the mower) now I understand how to wire it up. Thanks!!

[johngillon]

glad i found you. i have problems with a boat i am working on and it has ford tractor engines. I am at present trying to get the generators to work. I haven't got a clue, it has 2 alternators and engines and a bunch of different batteries. will sub and look out for your videos.