Has anybody been using the newer style solid state type voltage regulators. Any thoughts, experience's with these? Good? Bad? Thanks in advance everyone .
Ok. I am still using the type with contacts. Still works fine. I have a solid state type that is new in the box. Was thinking of swapping it in. I guess I will.
I've found them quite reliable, but mine were all built in the 1980s or earlier. Brand new ones may have the same quality as brand new condensors and points.
There aren't really any solid state regulators available for a generator that I know of. There was a firm, Clover Dynamo Systems, that made them for a while. I kind wish I'd have bought one, they were pretty cool. They looked original and they had the Ford and GM styles so they looked more or less original. A high amp diode would work for the cutout relay (the most common source of trouble I expect) but diodes have about a 1/2 volt or so forward voltage drop. That doesn't sound like a lot, but on a percentage basis looms large when talking about automotive battery charging setpoints.
On all my 1st gen Camaro builds I used the new solid state regs and put the old Delco Remy covers on them to make them look correct but work. On my 41 PU that I am building I used a one wire alt. so no reg. needed, instead I bought a old chrome ribbed cal custom reg. cover off our classifieds, cut the bottom open and used it as a bulkhead fitting to pass my wires through the firewall. There are a few floating about, you could put one of the covers over the new reg. and no one needs to know.
I like the cover a lot. My regulator is under the dash but a cover like that would be cool. Thanks Billy.
I just started using one a few months ago. It is a Chrysler style solid state replacement of the point style. I use it on a Honda civic alternator of the late 70's. Way less bounce than the point style. The cut in and out is also way better. It looks identical to the point style it replaces. Time will tell how it holds up but right now it is way superior.
Thanks for your input guys. I am going to put it in and keep the old one as a spare. I have looked at reviews on the solid state regulators and almost all are good, just wanted to see what my HAMB brothers opinions are first.
recently i went thru 3 auto parts direct replacement points type from 2 different chains . almost produced volts but never right ,, threw in the towel bough solid state was rock solid ,,, put original delco cover on and taa daaa ,,,,, i aint goin back ,,, customers 67 impala ,, i had to eat my time fabricator john missin you dad
I thought time was a blessing Lord knows what happens when it runs out. Any replacement part is a crap shoot, I have replaced both type in the field. Just make sure it has a good ground.
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