generator condenser??

[BAO B]

Hello,

My old generator has something on one end that i think is a condenser and are not sure. The new generator doesn't come with one. Where do can purchase this item that i think is a condenser but aren't sure?

Also, on both side of the generator is an opening which new generator come with a black plastic cover on it, while the old generator doesn't have the cover on them. How crucial is this cover for the generator? do i need to install them?

Also, the plate that you mount the generator to with 2 nuts has a gap or slit on the edge of the plate as pictured, does it matter where this slit positioned once you mount them? either say 5 o'clock or 11 o'clock as example.

Thanks in advance
Bao

[Jim Chambers]

I think that "condensor" is for eliminating radio interference. My '66 912 does not have one. Your old generator does not look correct. The plug connector is not like a Porsche 912 unit. Could it have come from a VW? The plastic covers are correct and should be used. I have no answer to your fan plate question.

[billvogt]

Take a quick look at the 912 Registry Wiki description of generators. There may be some useful info for you there. Generators - 912 BBS

[BAO B]

Thanks for your input.
I still need to know about the real truth on the condenser... There also a terminal coming out of it, i need to find out where they are connected to.
The cover is still a mystery for me..
Thanks anyway
bao

[WFBowen]

Bao:
As J. Chambers noted, the "condensor" (actually a capacitor) mounted on your generator is there to lessen radio interference caused by generators and ignition systems. These were quite common years ago on virtually all cars, but most newer radios and alternators have built-in capabilities to deal with interference. They were typically mounted in the ground circuit of the generator. Here's some examples of early VW applications:

As for the fan cover plate, the slit is there to divert a small amount of cooling air to the generator. I've always heard that the vent should be positioned at the bottom. It's a good idea to have a brush cover installed to keep dirt (and accidentally dropped parts) away from the internals. Finally, double-check your generator numbers to make sure you have the proper replacement for your fan mounting setup and your voltage regulator.

[BAO B]

Hi wfbowen,

great information, thanks a million!

So, the terminal from the capacitor is ground, correct?

As for the generator numbers.. Should it be just fine if the one i bought (the larger type generator which is correct for my '68) and assume it will fit just fine both for mounting set up and voltage reg.?

Thanks again
bao b.

[WFBowen]

Bao:
The capacitor usually goes inline between the ground wires. If you're switching to a new generator, I'd initially go without it, as it's one more thing that could go wrong.
Search out how to polarize the generator before hooking it up to the voltage regulator.
If you've got a new generator, it has to match the generator stand, backing plates, strap, voltage regulator & maybe a few bits here and there. The point is that the generators can only be interchanged with matching additional parts, as they're different lengths, diameters and outputs.

[BAO B]

Wfbowen

since it's a new generator, i think i will go with your advice to skip the capacitor to have one less issue to deal with.
Yes, i will polarize the new generator before hooking up.

Thanks again,
bao