Alternator or Dynamo?

[hagman]

Hello TBNers,

I'm getting ready to wire in a 12 volt outlet and some work lights on my B7610. I'm looking at a parts manual that I downloaded and see references to both a dynamo and an alternator. I'm familiar with alternators but must confess I have little knowledge about dynamos. How do I identify which one I have and how does it effect adding additional circuits to the tractor? I'm not going to proceed any further until I get some replies back educating me about the differences between the two and how to tell the apart.

Hagman
B7610 W/FEL, MMM & Box Scraper

 

[techman]

Kubota uses alternators. The reference to dynamo is from the translation and the term does not have any real significance. All modern charging devices used today are alternators.

paul

 

[hagman]

Paul,

Thank you very much for the prompt reply. I do have one other question however. Where can I find out what the amperage is of the alternator on my B7610?

Hagman

 

[FrogLick]

Actually most Kubotas come standard with a dynamo but they sell an optional alternator kit. If I remember correctly, a dynamo has limited output based upon RPMs, provides little overhead, but is sufficient for keeping the battery charged & headlights. The alternator has relatively constant output, significantly higher output and is better if one anticipates adding accessories (multiple work lights, etc.). The alternator kit is not real expensive ($200 or so). I had one installed by the dealer as part of my original B3030 purchase, but it's not a real complicated install.

 

[hagman]

Froglick,

Do you know how I can tell which one I have?

Hagman

 

[Jimbrown]

The dynamo looks very simialr to a computer cooling fan The alternator looks like a real alternator as used on cars ect.

 

[Jimbrown]

Just do a search for dynamo and you willget all kinds of stuff.

 

[George2615]

Your owners manual should have a spec page that lists the amp rating of your alternator. I tried a search on various sites but came up empty on any electrical specs pertaining to the charging system.

 

[Taiser]

Dynamo will be painted the exact same color of the engine is small and no cooling vents. The alternator is bigger, looks just like the one in an import car and is a shiny aluminum color 99% chance you have a dynamo as it's standard. The alternator is a 200$ option (if you install it yourself)

Here's a picture of my dynamo but soon to be upgraded to an alternator

 

[hagman]

Thanks to all that replied to this thread. Taiser, you were really helpful with the picture of the dynamo on your tractor. Apparently that's what I have also so at some point I'll need to upgrade.

Hagman