electric system

What changes need to be made to convert my 63 Ranchero from a generator to an alternator?? Any good sources on the subject? Anyone done it recently?

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V8 or 6 cyl?? If V8 you will need the 3-piece alt mount,regulator for a alternator and change the wiring. If 6 cyl you will also need to swap to a later timing chain cover. The old style doesn't have the boss for the mounting bolts. For wiring diagram see http://1bad6t.com/images/gen2alt.jpg

I'm replacing the original 170 with a 250 which is complete with the alternator aready mounted. I need to know how to connect it to my existing electrical system and what changes need to be made. Thanks

The above link has the info to change the wiring. Have you checked for hood clearance yet using the 250?

Do a search there should be lots of pics and diagrams in the archives.
Ras Daniel

Friend of mine and I did this about two years ago, using a 200 in his.

Biggest problem was in wires. We got a wire set out of a 65 or 66 Mustang, and it had the correct plug for going in to the alternator regulator, and the main loom at the firewall, but near everything else was missing. Chased the wires for the headlights, but seems to me there was a problem with the horn. I know we had to drill new holes for the regulator mounting.

Wm.

Yeah, the generator cars got power for the horn relay at the regulator and the horn button grounded the horn for sound. The alternator cars got it from the fuse box and the horn button completed the circuit. You need to get power to the horn relay from the "A" terminal on the regulator (or battery). The alternator cars do not use a horn relay. You can buy the regulator plug at any parts store and make your own harness.