BearKiller

I asked this question somewhere else and only got some generic replies that did not answer.


At what point in the system does the externally-regulated alternator in a factory-stock un-molested Dodge/Cummins "sense" voltage, in order for the regulator to know when to turn the alternator on and off ??


The specific point at which this occurs is vital to proper alternator function.


On Ford regulators, there are FOUR wires, a key-ON, the two alternator switch wires, and the "remote sensing" wire, which reads voltage at a point AWAY from the alternator, along with a noise-suppressing condensor that shares one of the regulator screws.


On the internal and external GM/Delco alternators are also "remote sensing" wires.



By the way, so-called one-wire GM alternators are fit only for agricultural equipment and are a poor choice for vehicles with electrical accessories.

Read this :

http://www.madelectrical.com/electri...esensing.shtml

: and then "click" on "electrical TECH" and read it all.


Seeing as how the Dodge regulator only has two wires, how does it "sense" voltage at a point other than at the alternator itself ??


Thanks.

victoroneill

Just got into this and you may have answer already.
The top center pin of the 3 senses voltage and is live with ignition on.
The bottom right excites the field to make things happen.
Don't use the bottom left at all (if there even is one on the V.R.)
Make sure you have an absoluttely perfect ground.
I use two grounds from the V.R. one to engine and one to Alterantor.

BearKiller

So, if I understand, the sensing is done at a point AFTER the current has passed through the key-switch, instead of having a seperate key-on position, correct ??


That could possibly be part of why these alternators/regulators are so un-friendly toward batteries and such.


I'm still learnin' ; thanks.