Alternator or Dynamo

Scotty Dive · Apr 2, 2011

Need some info folks. I want to run some additional lights on my YM 2020D and need more than the 15 amps or so the dynamo provides. Can I direct swap the dynamo for the 1972 Datsun 510 alternator? This Dynamo has a real small foot print and I am wondering if I am out of luck.

Couple of other questions -
1. does the dynamo provide 15 amps? Is there a higher capacity dynamo available?
2. If there Datsun alternator is an option - is the regulator I have reusable from the dynamo to the alternator?

California · Apr 2, 2011

Couple of suggestions:

Go to 100% LED light bulbs to get total load under 15 amps.

My two Yanmars have the two alternators you are talking about. The larger one has more wires coming out. I'm pretty sure the regulators are completely different. But the 72 Datsun regulator was under $20 at Autozone when I bought one.

I think there was a tiny alternator on older Geo that would fit easier if space is tight. It might not be expensive. Or maybe one off a SmartCar?

Scotty Dive · Apr 2, 2011

I have considered the LED's but they are far more expensive.

I do not mind replacing both the alternator and regulator - I think it would run about $60 total. I was hoping that the datsun alternator was the same width as the dynamo. Do you know if it is?

TerryShugart · Apr 2, 2011

Hi:
FWIW which may not be much the YM276 Service Manual does show a 35amp alternator option which appears to use the same regulator as the 15 amp. That would suggest that there may be a bolt in 35 amp option.
Others may know better than I.
Terry

Gary Sweat · Apr 2, 2011

Here is the Datsun alternator and the mount it needs. Hoye can probably supply you with the mount or you can build your own. Your plug should fit right in the back of it. I couldn't find a plug so I used two coated connectors. I also had the the original 15 amp alternator and my voltage regulator is working fine with the new 35 amp alternator.

Scotty Dive · Apr 3, 2011

Gary -
Are you saying you replaced your pancake Dynamo with the Datsun alternator reusing the same regulator?

Gary Sweat · Apr 3, 2011

Scotty Dive said:
Gary -
Are you saying you replaced your pancake Dynamo with the Datsun alternator reusing the same regulator?

No, I replaced my 15 amp alternator with a 35 amp. Kept the same voltage regulator. I was saying it shouldn't matter to the voltage regulator what amperage you are using if it is an old style mechanical regulator. The new solid state regulators will likely have a limit to what they can control. Mechanical regulators sense the voltage difference and pass the current across the relay contacts. Solid state use transistors, diodes and such and will have a limit to what they can pass and dissipate the heat.