Generator vs Alternator

ND856

Member
First off, I have both generators and alternators. 6V & 12V.
Converted my H a couple yrs ago to 12v/alt/electronic ign.
Absolutely love it. My question for everyone is this...
Whats the advantage of any generator over an alternator?
Not sure I know of one myself.
 
Aside from being "original" about the
only advantage of a generator is it
more tolerant of reverse polarity/wrong
voltage jump starting errors.

I too have tractors both with original
6V generators and 12V alternator
conversions. The alternator
conversions are virtually trouble-free;
the generators/regulators require
frequent attention to keep them
working. Also, the alternator
conversions start easier, and can
support more and MUCH brighter lights.
 
If you don't use the tractor a lot or use the lights a lot, you may be better off with an alternator as it will recharge the battery a little quicker.
 
Alternators will produce more voltage at a lower RPM, thus charging batteries better. All the current produced by a generator must go through the brushes, an alternator takes the current out of the stator mounted on the case, so the brushes on the alternator carry the lower excitation current. The newer alternators have solid stated regulators, thus no moving parts there to wear out.
 
I sometimes bale or run balewagon at night. Alternator keeps the battery up better when running extra equipment lights
 
I completely agree - I've converted one tractor to 12V generator and would never go that route again - it would be an alternator.The rest of mine are 12V alternators. I went 27 years on my first 2 conversions and only had to replace the batteries a few times. Finally last year had to have the alternators repaired as they gave out.
 

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