Has anyone switched over to a single wire alternator?
 

I still have the old style alt w/ext regulator. Has anyone upgraded to the internal, single wire type? What all is involved?

One hot wire. lol

Dude,

You know what I mean. I was looking for advice on switching over to a modern alt. w/an internal regulator. I don't have much electrical experience yet.

Safely dead-head or remove stock alternator & regulator wires. For best results run a thick power & ground wire directly from alt to batt, 4 gauge? The thicker the better. Be sure to have good engine/chassis grounds and remember most 1-wire units require hitting a certain RPM before they "excite"

I suggest you read the relevant FAQ's at this site. It's pretty informative: http://www.madelectrical.com/electrical-tech.shtml

I'm running a 1 wire that came with my March set up. It does a fine job of charging the battery. My only gripe is when the battery is charged crusing the regulator over compensates and system voltage is at 13 volts vs 13.5-14 which is optimal. If your plumbing in a brand new systems I'd go with the 3 wire as suggested by mad electric.

Thanks everyone. Like so many others, I'm learning as I go.:thumbsup: