[T2] Alternator vs generator

[Robert Mann]

   Another drawback of the gen is its inability to charge at low revs,
whereas the alternator, once the regulator has switched off the red
discharge light when engine revs reach c.1000 rpm, then keeps charging even
when the revs drop to v low idle.
   I've driven both, and would unhesitatingly prefer alternator.   And I
speak as one who's just had to replace those slip rings mentioned by Al.
The brushes on them were nowheres near worn out.  Gen brushes are doomed to
faster wear for the reason stated by Al.
   It is a puzzle why mfrs took so long to install alternators in place of
gens.  Plymouth was, surprisingly, the first I know of (1962).  Renault
followed with the fabulous R16, 1965 I think; VW slower (and why, I've
never known).  I think my '73 VW was the first T2 with alt, and I'm glad of
it.

RM
'73 1600dp Devon

On Sat, Jul 14, 2018 at 12:49 PM, Al Brase <alribee at gmail.com> wrote:

> Alternator has longer MTBF. IOW, ya gotta put brushes in a generator
> periodically. Because they ride on a COMMUTATOR, a segmented ring with
> insulating material between the segments. there is always a little friction
> and sparking as the current flow is handed off to the next pair.
> In an alternator, the rings are continuous smooth rings. There is much less
> wear.
> Al
>
> On Fri, Jul 13, 2018 at 1:45 PM, Bob <ka1dza at verizon.net> wrote:
>
> > Hi all,
> > What are the advantages of alternator vs generator?
> > Also, what are the advantages of vacuum advanced distrubutors?
> >
> >
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