10 replies to this topic

[ToM 2012]

Hi I have the original Dynamo that was fitted to my mk1 engine but is it a good idea to change to a newer alternator? I have a brand new alternator I can use but the sizes are different is there a way of changing it? Thanks Tom

[dklawson]

There are advantages to the alternator but you must weigh your decision against how original you want the car to be.  

 

Rather than repeat the process here I direct you to two tech articles at Mini Mania.  The first covers basics of how-to, the second discusses using an old dynamo control box as a junction box so you don't have to cut up the loom during this conversion.

http://www.minimania...on_Instructions

and

http://www.minimania..._Alternator_721

 

You specifically asked about "making it fit".  I presume you are concerned about the length difference.  That is handled one of two ways.  The cheap DIY method is to make a spacer up for the rear mounting point.  However, the neater way to handle this is to buy the alternator mounting bracket (part 12G1053) which will replace the rear support used with the dynamo.

[carbon]

+1 for Doug's comments.

 

A good reason to change a Mini from dynamo to an alternator is if you're planning to use the car throughout the year with regular use during winter - under these conditions the dynamo can struggle with cold starts / headlights / wipers / heater load.

 

I'm running a Mk2 and a Mk3, and have kept both with dynamo, this works fine for the use I give them.

[ToM 2012]

Thanks guys is there a place that could refurb my Dynamo or is it best to buy a new one? i was hoping to reuse it but after sitting for 12 years not sure if it's ok to reuse after a clean up. Is there a way of looking hearing for a bad one? Any tests I can do cheers Tom

[rhys-89]

Just to add I have change to an alternator on my mk1 bought the longer bracket required as the alternator is shorter and also followed the mini mania guide to convert the voltage regulator as a joint box to keep a more original appearance and a good way to hide the joints

[carbon]

Thanks guys is there a place that could refurb my Dynamo or is it best to buy a new one? i was hoping to reuse it but after sitting for 12 years not sure if it's ok to reuse after a clean up. Is there a way of looking hearing for a bad one? Any tests I can do cheers Tom

Does the dynamo spin over by hand?

[ToM 2012]

Hi yes it spins freely but binds a little .

[ToM 2012]

Thanks everyone I might stick to original after all it's not going to be moving much when finished cheers Tom

[carbon]

At the non-pulley end of the dynamo there is a bush, after while the oil dries out. There is a small oil hole in the centre, try putting a little oil in there, leave for a few days and then try turning again. If you can also get some oil into the bearing at the pulley end this may also help, and a spray of WD40 on the commutator while turning over helps.

[ToM 2012]

Cheers carbon