Adding Electric Fan need how to 3G alternator upgrade
- Thread starter mcode
- Start date
I just installed a 1-wire G-3 alternator from Powermaster.
Its just 1 wire from alternator to battery (or hot side of starter relay) There's more info on their website.
130amp should be plenty for most apps.
Most fans use 15-20amps
Dont just shoot for total amps, whats just as important is amps at idle.
Its just 1 wire from alternator to battery (or hot side of starter relay) There's more info on their website.
130amp should be plenty for most apps.
Most fans use 15-20amps
Dont just shoot for total amps, whats just as important is amps at idle.
Just take the single lead from the alternator to the B+ side of anything that has a 0-2ga lead to the battery. The starter motor is a good place or the solenoid on the fender. Now might be a good time for a late model starter too, then you can dump half of the engine compartment wiring (with the 1-wire alt) including tha fugly solenoid.
Tim65GT
Active Member
I added A 3G when I installed my Vintage Air Unit on my '65. I got it for $45 off a '94 GT. Plus any parts such as regulator or bearings are as close as any parts store. The best part is that it has the same dimensions as my original alternator. Swapping the pulley was easy with an impact gun.
130 Amps is a lot of current, so research and use good size wire and definetly use the mega fuse:
View attachment 506137
If a diode in the alternator shorts, it could cause a fire if you don't have a fuse. It's good insurance.
The BC Bronco diagram is good.
130 Amps is a lot of current, so research and use good size wire and definetly use the mega fuse:
View attachment 506137
If a diode in the alternator shorts, it could cause a fire if you don't have a fuse. It's good insurance.
The BC Bronco diagram is good.
Here is something you may want to consider,
http://www.madelectrical.com/electricaltech/onewire-threewire.shtml
After reading this it sure seems like a three wire setup is the ticket.
http://www.madelectrical.com/electricaltech/onewire-threewire.shtml
After reading this it sure seems like a three wire setup is the ticket.
I always thought a 3G was the same as a one-wire, guess not. So is the 1-wire a 4G?
Regarding madelectrical...the owner of that company is one of the most knowlegable and easy to talk to guys I've ever "met". Give him a call and just start asking questions, make sure you do it when you have some time though
He has helped me immensely with my wiring mess...I give him the highest rating!
Regarding madelectrical...the owner of that company is one of the most knowlegable and easy to talk to guys I've ever "met". Give him a call and just start asking questions, make sure you do it when you have some time though
He has helped me immensely with my wiring mess...I give him the highest rating!
Tim65GT
Active Member
I like that article. It doesn't go into too much detail about the wiring of the "I" terminal if you are not using the alternator lamp. In some sites I've seen where it recommends to use an in-line 560 ohm resistor. Some don't. I put one in mine, but never tried to see what effect of running without one would be.
If you are wiring a battery in the trunk, the "A" terminal or "Sensing wire" is ideal for that apllication because of the possible voltage drop through the long charge wire.
The MAD article doesn't mention the use of the "Megafuse" but it does say to use Fuseable Links. From what I can remember, they are usually 2 gage sizes smaller than the wire they are protecting. For instance, a 6 gauge wire would have a 10 gauge fuselink.
If you are wiring a battery in the trunk, the "A" terminal or "Sensing wire" is ideal for that apllication because of the possible voltage drop through the long charge wire.
The MAD article doesn't mention the use of the "Megafuse" but it does say to use Fuseable Links. From what I can remember, they are usually 2 gage sizes smaller than the wire they are protecting. For instance, a 6 gauge wire would have a 10 gauge fuselink.
86T-Top
Founding Member
One wire alternators are an aftermarket thing for Ford vehicles. The 2G, 3G, and 4G alternators are all 3 wire set ups (at least the one I have run across). If you want a one wire alternator you need to order an after market one from Powermaster or another company like that. A 3G alternator will take care of your needs. Also it is VERY important that you fuse the power wire, if the wire shorts and it is not fused the chances of an electrical fire are high. Also when you step up the wire gauge on the positive side, it is important to increase the size of the ground cables.
Mario
Mario
