A new alternator?

[art_of_war]

Hi All!
We have an E-type, series 1, 3.8, 1962

The ignition light went on. The check up showed that the generator (or should i say alternator? Sorry English is not my native language) does not charge the battery. We took it off - and indeed it went out of order.

I see obviously two options: buying a new part, or rebuilding this one. Apart from rebuilding this one, what options do you guys think I have?

I mean, there is this option for instance:

http://www.scparts.co.uk/sc_en/english- ... -8197.html

But, since I am not in the UK, it is very difficult for me to return the old part for a surcharge... therefore it turns out pretty expensive.

Another option is even more expensive:
http://www.scparts.co.uk/sc_en/drehstro ... 56530.html

I have heard, that there is an aftermarket option, some modern type of alternator that could be used, and it is not expensive.

If you guys know anything about it, let me know please, would appreciate.

Thank you
Artem

[Heuer]

Artem

Your 3.8 should have a dynamo, only the 4.2's originally had an alternator. The two are different and although you can change from dynamo to alternator (the alternator is more efficient) doing so does involve a bit of work plus sourcing various parts. You will also need to convert the car from +ve earth to -ve earth and the Forum Knowledge Base has an article on how to do that.

The dynamo generates a charge and is controlled by a regulator:


The regulator can fail and you would not get the battery charging. So you need to check both and details of how to do this are in the Workshop manual. A new regulator is available from SNGB: http://www.sngbarratt.com/ProductDetail ... 2b18f809c0

As for the dynamo perhaps you can find someone locally who can check and repair it? They are fairly standard items, albeit on older cars. SNGB also can supply a reconditioned dynamo: http://www.sngbarratt.com/ProductDetail ... 518c2d630d

I suggest you establish a relationship with SNGB by email or phone and once they understand your circumstances and location I am sure they will do everything in their power to ensure you get a good service. Hopefully you already have copies of the Jaguar Spare Parts catalogue and Service Manual? They are readily available as either originals or reproductions on eBay and are essential because although you will get lots of assistance here we tend to always refer people to one or the other.

[art_of_war]

Dear Heuer,

thanks a lot for your reply and information. I will contact the SNGB for these parts. Appears like we need the dynamo itself

[art_of_war]

Dear Heuer,

I talked to the guys at SNG Barratt, they said I need this in case I want a rebuilt dynamo:

http://www.sngbarratt.com/ProductDetail ... f2a1cca893

the problem is, they don't have it in stock, and it's a problem for me to send the ex in exchange

Or we can get the alternator, which is more expensive, but you say it will require extra parts and work to install...

http://www.sngbarratt.com/ProductDetail ... 53237a269a

[iani]

Have you considered getting an alternator in a dynamo casing, here's a link: http://www.autoelectricsupplies.co.uk/product_list/197 I think it's the C42 you'd need but don't quote me.

Ian

[art_of_war]

Dear Ian, thank you for your message. I am considering this as well, but as far as I understand this part will require extra work and parts for installation instead of an original dynamo?

[iani]

"The units are direct replacements and keep the classic appearance. Wiring is simple as you simply by-pass the bulkhead mounted regulator and connect to existing cabling." This would seem to suggest otherwise Art.

Ian

[art_of_war]

Although, it says there:

This Dynator can also be supplied fitted with a 89mm diameter, 'w' section pulley suitable for Jaguar E type 3.8/4.2 Series 1. (LMDC42-LMP72) - Negative Earth.

Probably it is a good option! thank you!

[art_of_war]

This is interesting

You simply by-pass the regulator - so this means that this Alternator does not need the regulator any more, and you just connect it directly ?

[iani]

I've never used one Art, my car has an alternator, worth doing some more digging though.

Ian

[art_of_war]

Thank you for the link, Ian!

[art_of_war]

Dear Ian, just wanted to say, you were right - we took ours off, it is C42
thanx again

[Heuer]

This is interesting. You simply by-pass the regulator - so this means that this Alternator does not need the regulator any more, and you just connect it directly ?

Yes, the Dynator contains an alternator with an integrated regulator so it would be really simple to fit. You will need the V section pulley to match the 3.8 pulleys (not the W pulley) and a +ve earth version provided you are sure the car has not been changed to -ve earth at some point in the past. Ian's idea is excellent as it will get the car back on the road quickly, you have the benefits of an alternator and you won't need to mess about changing the polarity.

However if you ever want to use any modern equipment in the car - phone charger, modern radio, iPod, Sat-Nav etc you may want to consider changing to -ve earth before specifying the type of Dynator. Instructions here: Positive to negative earth conversion guide: http://www.jcna.com/library/tech/tech0023.html If you do this simply order a -ve earth Dynator

[art_of_war]

Dear David
I will take our Dyno (it is C42) to an electrician tomorrow morning, see if he can do something. If not - will most likely follow Ian's idea and get the new Alternator in the Dyno case.
Ok thank you about the instructions, I understand that if modern equipment will be used we need to change the polarity (if it has not been changed in the past), but I don't think it will be ever needed ) I mean it is such a pleasure just to drive this car and to enjoy the sound of the motor and exhaust, nothing else is really needed )
If you'll have any idea on the doors (sorry for off top) for xj6 let me know please or I will post a new post now I guess.