The alternator (which is new) on my Ford 1.6 Diesel does not start charging when the engine is initially started unless I blip the revs to about 1500 or so when it suddenly kicks into life. When I slow the engine down to its tickver, the alternator continues to output power albeit at a lower level. From previous advice on this forum I have added a lamp in the circuit such that it is illuminated when there is no charge but goes out as soon as I have blipped the throttle and the ammeter is showing a charge.
I'm sure someone will give you a full answer shortly but, there needs to be an 'exciter' current to the alternator to kick it into life. Once running, it will keep itself excited . I believe enough speed can also cause the alternator to self-excite. Basically I think you're missing this initial current which goes to one of the terminals on the alternator.
Usually the current flowing through the warning light bulb provides the field current to initially excite the alternator. Once it is generating, the bulb goes out and the alternator is providing its own field current.
A larger wattage bulb might help to get it going a bit sooner.
Are the pulleys the correct size or is the alternator running more slowly than designed?
Brushes and slip rings OK? Probably if it delivers the output you'd expect once it is going. Likewise the field diodes. Edit: Oh its new anyway.
If it performs to spec once it is going it is not something to worry unduly about I suggest.
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Had the same problem when I changed to car alternators for more output.
The pulley size is the key factor, make it as small as the drive belt can tolerate.
I have to "blip" mine before the charge light goes out and keep the revs up to get full charge. If I drop revs, the current drops but the light stays out.
I'm getting my (alloy) pulley turned down this winter.
Yet another Alternator question !!!!!
. I believe enough speed can also cause the alternator to self-excite. Basically I think you're missing this initial current which goes to one of the terminals on the alternator.
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