<VV> Uprated Alternator?

[rt66vairs at aol.com]

Bill,
 
Buy the Honda Generator....
 
Quiet, longer lasting and much more reliable 
 
-----Original Message-----
From: Bill Elliott <Corvair at fnader.com>
To: virtualvairs at corvair.org <virtualvairs at corvair.org>
Sent: Tue, 31 May 2005 15:53:02 -0400
Subject: <VV> Uprated Alternator?


Slowly working out a plans on my newly-acquired '71 Corvair Westfalia...between 
upgraded H4 lighting, Hella driving lights, and dual batteries (inc a deep 
cycle marine battery) I think the stock 35amp alternator might find itself 
overtaxed in some situations.  I'd like to upgrade, but don't know much about 
the 
higher-output units.  Some questions:

1. I understand they are more prone to throw/break belts. This is a PG 
application, so should I be concerned about this since there are no harsh 
shifts?

2. It looks like many/most? of the uprated units are "single wire" types... 
since this is a "hack in" to the VW electrical system, I'm thinking I should 
stay with 
a stock hookup... is this a misplaced concern? Are "normal" HO alternaters even 
available? Anyone have one for sale?

3. My Alt light already glows under heavy electrical use (headlamps, even 
brighter with turnsignals on)... is this an indication of an already taxed 
alternator or 
more an indication of the mating of the electrical systems?

4. I want a VERY obvious indicator of a thrown belt. Use the small warning lamp 
to drive a relay to a much brighter light? Or set up a completely different 
system like Warren's pressure-activated warning lamp? (The warning lamp "as is" 
would be sufficent for most of us, but I need it to be obvious for even 
drivers of modern cars.)

5. I'm also thinking of adding a small, light cheap generator. This would be to 
provide some power for comfort items when camping without AC but also as a 
backup to recharge the batteries should they both end up dead.... prices seem to 
range from $120 for an offbrand 950W 42lb 2 stroke to $900+ for a similar 
Honda 4 stroke weighing 65lbs.  Anyone with any generator advice (or a used 
generator for sale?). Figured I could also get use of this in my race trailer... 

assuming I ever go to the track again!

6. Last question... I'd like to "brag" about my Corvair power... John was too 
classy for this, allowing the performance to speak for itself.... but now with 
the 
wide variety of transplants in use out there, what would be a subtle 
emblem/sticker to use on the back? I was thinking a simple "110" engine 
emblem...but 
few people would recognize that as Corvair... 

Overall, I'm looking for optimal touring reliability... the van is already set 
up extremely reliably thanks to John Moody... but as I'm adding gear and 
potentially 
more inexperienced drivers I want to at least maintain the safety margin.

Thanks!
Bill Elliott


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