I’m within the strategy of swapping a 383ci small-block into my V6-powered 1981 Malibu. The swap goes effectively however I’ve run right into a small electrical connection drawback. The outdated Malibu used one of many inner regulator alternators with a two-pin connector. My new engine is operating an alternator and whole entrance drive meeting from an early Nineties Chevy TBI pickup truck. The alternator connections are usually not the identical. I’m unsure which wire goes the place. Are you able to assist with this?
B.T.
The alternator that initially got here in your V6 Malibu is an internally regulated alternator that changed the unique externally regulated alternators. This internally regulated alternator is named both a 10Si or 12Si relying upon its output. They use a big output submit on the again together with a two-wire flat connector on the facet of the alternator.
The alternator to your new small block is a a lot later design that can also be internally regulated unit and known as a CS-130. This alternator nonetheless makes use of the everyday excessive amperage output connector that runs to the battery however makes use of an oblong, four-wire plug that controls the alternator. As you’ve decided, the plugs are usually not the identical.
The excellent news is that there’s a easy conversion harness offered by Powermaster that makes this conversion very easy utilizing the Powermaster half quantity PWM-140. The adapter options connectors on each ends that can permit you to rapidly join the 2. Nonetheless, if the unique harness is designed for an alternator on the alternative facet of the engine, it could not attain the brand new alternator place. We’re assuming that the alternator positions is not going to be comparable
On this case, there may be nonetheless a easy conversion equipment from Painless Efficiency. The CS-130 alternator makes use of two wires that exit the connector. One is often barely bigger and is the connection to 12 volt battery constructive. The second wire is named the excite wire and is related to switched 12 volt constructive when the hot button is within the run place. Painless provides an 85 ohm, 5 watt resistor that needs to be used if this switched energy wire just isn’t used along with a cost indicator gentle. This resistor will stop injury to the inner regulator within the alternator.
So wiring this your self ought to take just a few moments. For instance, if you wish to use the cost wire connector from the 10Si alternator, merely join that wire to the cost connector wire on the Painless connector and also you’re executed and you’ll not want the inline resistor. However in case you select to decide on a special switched energy connection, be sure to don’t splice into the wire meant for switched energy to the coil. For those who achieve this, the ability from the alternator will proceed to energise the coil after the ignition swap is turned off and the engine will proceed to run.
