[T2] Alternator vs generator

[Bob Pratt]

Hi all,
Thank you for all your opinions!
I bought an alternator, fuel pump, alternator stand, and a vacuum advance distributor.
I discovered that the PO removed the cooling flaps and thermostat from the doghouse.
I was able to find the flaps, hardware and thermostat from a source nearby.
Now to cleanup the alternator stand and flaps and get them painted before I get them installed. While I'm at it, I need to replace the boots on the headers. I want to make sure that I replace anything that may be allowing air into the system.

What is the opinion of the group about moving the gas filter under the vehicle?
Again thanks for everyone's opinion. They helped me make my decision as the engine is sitting on the ground so I may as well do everything now!

Bob

> On Jul 13, 2018, at 11:31 PM, Robert Mann <robtmann7 at gmail.com> wrote:
> 
>    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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