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Massey Harris & Massey Ferguson Tractors Discussion Forum
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Ok... So I was wondering .... why convert?

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Gerald Eggart

05-09-2007 09:41:51




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From time to time I here/see a message about converting a generator to an alternator. I'm a little nieve about these things.... don't they do the same? Why convert?

Thanks for setting me straight!

-Gerry




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old

05-09-2007 11:06:59




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 Re: Ok... So I was wondering .... why convert? in reply to Gerald Eggart, 05-09-2007 09:41:51  
Another reason is with an alternator you use 12 volts instead of the common 6 volt system on tractors. That 12 volts spins the engine over a lot faster so ones that are iffy on 6 volts start up fast and easy on 12 volts. And like the other guy says after you set it up on 12 volts its a lot cheaper to keep things working since you can buy a common Delco 10si alternator for under $50 and a 12 volt battery is cheaper and seems to last longer then a 6 volt battery

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Gerald J.

05-09-2007 11:05:54




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 Re: Ok... So I was wondering .... why convert? in reply to Gerald Eggart, 05-09-2007 09:41:51  
In many cases the alternator has a much greater peak current output at a lower engine speed so it charges better and with the rectifiers as cutout it has no reverse current which tends to counteract low speed charging current reducing the performance of the generator even further. While an alternator also has brushes they carry a much smaller current and don't commutate so they don't spark and wear so fast. Then the solid state regulators typical of an alternator holds the charging voltage to a closer tolerance leading to significantly extended battery life.

I've converted my JD 4020 to alternator, but not my MF-135. But I tweaked the voltage regulator on the MF-135 that was new when I bought the tractor but not charging well. Now I get years of battery life even while working the generator harder running an electric sprayer pump. Someday when the ground dries, I will be running planter moniter and sprayer together while planting and fertilizing corn with the MF-135.

Putting an alternator on the MF-135 disables the tachometer so its good that the generator works well.

Gerald J.

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Sean Feeney 2

05-09-2007 10:05:31




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 Re: Ok... So I was wondering .... why convert? in reply to Gerald Eggart, 05-09-2007 09:41:51  
I think it cheaper to replace with a $35.00 alternator then have to get hard to find genny repairman or parts, we locally used to have 2-3 guys repairing starters and alternators now you have to drive 45 min away its cheaper to go to Adap.



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Gerald Eggart

05-09-2007 10:08:22




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 Re: Ok... So I was wondering .... why convert? in reply to Sean Feeney 2, 05-09-2007 10:05:31  
Ahhh that explains it. Just had my Generator rebuilt for about $110. Next time I'll then convert also.

Thanks!!



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Ian Johnsen

05-12-2007 10:14:01




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 Re: Ok... So I was wondering .... why convert? in reply to Gerald Eggart, 05-09-2007 10:08:22  
I guess it comes down to the look you're trying to achieve. I had the generator on my MH 20 converted to a 12v negative ground set up because I wanted to keep the motor looking as it did from the factory. I could use the same belt. I have seen alternators put on with the same narrow automotive belt pulley. Then the skinny belt is pulled tight between the wide crank and waterpump pulleys. I too spent 110 to have my generator rewound, but by the time I bought an alternator, fabbed the brackets, stood at the belts at Napa looking for one that would work, it may have been a wash.

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