How do you hook up a single wire alternator?

The only thing you need to hook up on a one-wire alternator is a charge wire from the terminal on the alternator to the positive terminal on the battery (or any positive battery source). The external regulator can either be totally dismantled from the firewall or left in place.

What is a 1-wire alternator?

Simple, One-Wire Hook Up. As you might assume, the concept behind a one-wire alternator is that there is a single wire used to connect the alternator to the battery. The voltage regulator is internal, and there are no other wires that need to be connected to your electrical system.

Does a 1-wire alternator need to be grounded?

Being a true one-wire alternator means having a solid ground and an ample wire attached to the battery is all thats needed to keep that battery charged.

What wires hook up to the alternator?

Locate the terminal on the alternator labeled B, Bat or Pos. All alternators have this terminal. The wire that connects to it is red and goes to the battery. It is a heavy duty wire as it has to carry high current.

What is the exciter wire on an alternator?

The exciter wire is used to turn on the voltage regulator. This wire, when unplugged, should have approx. 12.5 volts with the key on. If it does not then the alternator will not work.

What are the 3 wires on a GM alternator?

The three wire types in a three-wire alternator include the battery positive wire, the voltage sensing wire, and the ignition input wire. The battery positive wire connects to the starter. The voltage sensing wire connects to the battery, and the ignition wire connects from the alternator to the key switch.

What does the R and F stand for on an alternator?

Blue to F, White to R F stands for field. Voltage on the field determines how much output from the alternator. The regulator varies the voltage on this wire to keep the system at more or less 14 volts output.

Will an alternator work without an exciter wire?

The alternators on most modern vehicles have internal voltage regulators; therefore, they dont need an exciter wire to function properly.

Is 1 wire alternator better?

Striking a compromise between functionality and looks is a battle that can arise when it comes to choosing an alternator. While the 1-wire units offer clean and simple installation with minimally visible wiring, the OE-style 3-wire units can provide better electrical performance for the demands of your hot rod.

Why does alternator have 3 wires?

The alternator has a rotor that spins when the engine cranks. This rotor spins past wire coils causing a magnetic field. The three wire types in a three-wire alternator include the battery positive wire, the voltage sensing wire, and the ignition input wire. The battery positive wire connects to the starter.