Is there a Difference

John B. · Jun 10, 2018

Is there a difference between a generator and a starter-generator beside the size of the pulley? I'm speaking of those on garden tractors or small engines years ago. I wouldn't think there is but I never asked either.

Sprint 6 · Jun 10, 2018

Electrically I don't know, but starter generators tend to be a more sealed type of unit with no vents or fan, while an auto generator is usually open somewhere and has a fan for cooling. Auto generators also have a higher charging amperage than starter/generators.

Gene Davis (Ga.) · Jun 10, 2018

Yes, there is a difference. The starter/generator has a stronger torque force when you are applying current to turn the engine. Then when it starts the engine and reaches about 1,000 RPM or so it begins to produce electricity to return to the storage battery via the voltage regulator. Most of them usually produce about 15 amps at about 14.5 volts max.

GarryinNC · Jun 10, 2018

Someone posted a copy of the manual for the old Delco starter/generators, used on riding mowers in the 60s and 70s. If I remember correctly, the Delcos had two sets of windings to accomplish the start/gen task. The ones on golf carts, like Gene Davis refers to, I have never quite understood, but they work well!

Garry

old · Jun 10, 2018

Yes there is a difference. Any generator will motor and that is a way of testing them but they do not have the torque to spin an engine over but the starter generator are made in such a way that they can motor with a high torque so it can spin an engine over.

Bob · Jun 10, 2018

The common Delco starter-generators used on small engines have two field coils, one wound with small-gauge wire which acts as the generator field, and one wound with heavy copper strip (like a starter) which is used for the "start" function.

IIRC, because of compromise between the "start" and "charge" functions, they only charge about 15 Amps, but that's enough for the applications where they are used.

John B. · Jun 10, 2018

Thanks everyone.

oliver power · Jun 10, 2018

Hi Gene,

There was a guy in Hornell, NY (Big Creek Rd) who worked on generators, alternators, starters, magnetos, etc. for a living. Once retired, he still did a little repair work from home. Really knew his stuff. Seams like his last name was Davis. Is that you?

Is there a Difference

John B.

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Sprint 6

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Gene Davis (Ga.)

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GarryinNC

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old

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Bob

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John B.

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oliver power

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