Re: [DML] Re: Delorean restoration project, need some tips!

["DMC Joe" <dmcjoe@xxxx>]

Dan,

You are correct about the fact that the Ducelliar alternator has been in the
car for 20 years, so why replace it? I'm very confident that the reason this
alternator is still functioning is because it was never operated at full
load for an extended period of time.

Here is the scenario for failure of the Ducelliar 80 Amp alternator.

Hot summer day driving in downtown stop and go traffic at dawn while it is
raining. You have almost every electrical item in operation. AC on max (both
cooling fans on), wipers on, head lights on, and maybe the radio. At this
point the system is pulling more amperage the Ducelliar can put out. The
"skimpy" diode bridge is dangerously close to the exhaust manifold causing a
"load dump condition" which further reduces the output voltage. You start to
notice the volt meter dropping below 11 volts and ZAP! Your alternator
failure warning lamp illuminates.

If you can avoid this situation your Decelliar my be around for a few more
years.

"We're here to help you"; See you in Cleveland!

DMC Joe / De Lorean Services / <dmcjoe@xxxx>
Web Site: <www.deloreanservices.com>
.

----- Original Message -----
From: <danh@xxxx>
To: <dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Friday, June 02, 2000 12:58 AM
Subject: [DML] Re: Delorean restoration project, need some tips!


> Thanks for the info, I was under the impression that the in-line
> fuses were behind the radio, I guess I'll have to take a closer look.
>
> About the alternator, it's the original Ducellier which everybody
> keeps telling me to replace. However I find it a little hasty to
> replace a part that's been working fine for nearly 20 years. Since I
> plan on putting in an aftermarket stereo system at some point I'll
> probably end up replacing it with a more powerful alternator, but I
> think I stick with the Ducellier until then.
>
> -Dan