Re: [DML] What's the difference between ALTERNATOR and GENERATOR

["Tom Niemczewski" <dmctom@xxxxxxxxx>]

A generator puts out DC (direct current) while an alternator puts out AC 
(alternating current). Generator has a simpler construction but generates 
less power. Alternator requires a bridge rectifier made up of diodes 
(usually 6 of them) to change AC into DC. Alternator makes more electricity 
for the same size unit.

As for the light... there could be a couple of reasons. Lower wattage bulb 
was probably the cause. And the reason to use a dimmer bulb is that 
generators usually can't keep charging at idle, so that GEN light would come 
on at idle. As not to distract the driver too much, the light was dimmer. 
Those were the days of those dim yellow headlights... dead batteries ;) 
aahhh, the memories

Hope this helps

Tom Niemczewski
vin 6149 (in Poland!)
Google earth: 52°25'17.30"N 21° 1'58.00"E
dmctom@xxxxxxxxx
www.deloreana.com



----- Original Message ----- 
From: "daviddlasvegas" <daviddlasvegas@xxxxxxxxx>
To: <dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Monday, July 09, 2007 1:12 AM
Subject: [DML] What's the difference between ALTERNATOR and GENERATOR


> Continuing with the car electrical comments ...
>
> Cars today have documentation in the manual for "alternators" and the
> tell tale light says "ALT" for alternator (or is the symbol of a
> battery).
>
> But I have 2 late 1970s cars in my family, and the tell tale light
> says "GEN" for generator.
>
> Is there a difference between an 'alternator' and a 'generator' or are
> the two terms used interchangeably with regard to cars?
>
> Also here is a question I get no one can answer...
>
> While not the case on the DMC, GM cars from the 1970s-80s had "GEN"
> tell tale lights. If you turned the key into accessory mode, all the
> tell tale lights illuminated. But the "GEN" light was always dimmer
> than the others. Why was it dimmer?
>
>
>
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>



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