Dynamo conversions

[jddevel]

In order to travel on the continent I believe I have to have daytime driving lights? So as my car currently has a dynamo I feel I ought to look to converting to a "alternator". With that in mind should a conversion to a DYNAMATOR be the way to go and have contributors negative views on the product from ACCUSPARK please. I will also take the opportunity to convert to their electronic ignition kit.

[Steve Simmons]

Does the generator not keep up with having headlamps on? I also wonder if the driving lamp would suffice as a DRL? Or you could install LEDs in the headlamps, which would be cheaper than an alternator and look more original.

I've heard mixed reviews on the Dynamators and similar products. Some people have good luck which others say they burn up.

[Duncan M]

The TC uses the large 4.5" dia case with the tach takeoff. Dynamator you would end up with either the smaller dia case with a tach takeoff, or the correct 4.5" size with no tach takeoff.

[Ian R]

Surely the best solution is to fit LED bulbs to whatever you are going to use as running lights.
I’ve done LEDs on everything except headlamps (still working on these).
The current draw is tiny compared to conventional lights & my Dynamo keeps up with no problems at all.

[Franz Tenbrock]

use a switchback led for the sidelamps, so you have both
sidelamp and direction lights.

i have a alternator now since the winter, no problem works nearly perfect

[jddevel]

I am specifically looking at one of these https://www.accuspark.co.uk/dynamatortype1.htm which besides being a 45 amp unit as can be seen has the option of a tacho take off. Plus I`m not sure that side lights are acceptable as driving lights. Regarding originality I appreciate this is important to many and what changes I make -if any, I try and ensure these can be returned to "as original". I would also add in this particular case it`s for my TF1500 although if successful may be included in my TC but that has been converted to LEDs by using the sealed units and adapters from 60s/70s motorcycle which fit perfectly into the 8" original headlight shell. Any further advice appreciated.

[Ray White]

I have fitted a Dynamator produced by 'Stealth'... but the car is not finished yet so I can't comment on it's operation. I had to specify positive ground to match my car and was intrigued that it came with a relay which is grounded at two terminals. Why a relay is required, I have no idea but there is probably a good reason1

I still have the original dynamo that will stay with the car but will need refurbishment. I don't doubt that a dynamo would be adequate for normal use... but an alternator just does it far better. The battery should benefit from improved idle speed charging and the improved output means that there is always more "in hand" rather than the generator being pushed to it's limits. The absence of heavy magnets in an alternator means it is considerably lighter. It also costs less and should (in theory at least) be more rugged.

My only doubt would be that there may not be adequate ventilation/cooling. This, however, does not seem to be a problem according to the reviews. If I recall correctly, a TD crankshaft pulley will be required.