FE-FC Holden Discussion Forum

Technical Board => General Technical => Topic started by: Wasim on April 22, 2023, 08:21:58 AM



Title: Alternator exciter wire question
Post by: Wasim on April 22, 2023, 08:21:58 AM
The last piece to wiring the car is the alternator exciter wire. I've tested all the wiring  - all good - and got the motor running only to find the alternator wasn't charging. I'm using a 55 amp alternator with a built in regulator and thought it would start charging once a certain rpm was reached??? but not so - therefore I'll try it with an exciter wire.

I have a Wilsonia gauge and from what I can see if I'm going to have an ignition light (exciter) it is with the temp tell tale?

I'm confused in that the temp tell tale gets power from the ignition and is grounded to the engine block when the temp rises too high.

Where do I connect to exciter wire from the alternator??

Cheers in advance, Wasim



Title: Re: Alternator exciter wire question
Post by: Dr_Terry on April 23, 2023, 11:18:16 AM
The exciter voltage for the alternator is only required for initial start-up. The temp switch is open at this time so the required voltage will appear at the temp light wire as required. If the motor runs too hot (later on) & the temp switch closes the voltage will disappear, but that won't matter as the alternator has already been 'excited'.

Dr Terry