2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Alternator or Generator??

[Doc Tinker]

It looks like an alternator. . It acts like an alternator. . It feels like an alternator. . but is it really an alternator?



While researching the 2000 Dodge Ram Service Manual and the 2000 Dodge Ram Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures Manual, I couldn't help but notice that there was no mention of an alternator. The generator was a popular subject though.



Doc

 

[Thomas]

It's both.

 

[Doc Tinker]

So there is no difference between an Alternator and a Generator?

 

[Thomas]

The word alternator is used to describe alternating current generators.

 

[klenger]

On the aircraft that have AC electrical systems, the engine driven power creating device is called a generator. Not sure why. The generator creates 115 vac 400 Hz three phase power, which is converted to 28 vdc by a Transformer Rectifier Unit (TRU) for the DC systems. Very efficient, and redundancy all over the place.

 

[Rman]

Generators, that purely create DC have become obselete. Solid state rectification of AC has led to this. The requirement for both DC and AC on vehicles has also led to it. Alternators create AC, which is rectified to DC for other uses. A typical generator, like the old school ones on really old vehicles create DC. They pass the current through the brushes which significantly wears the commutator, and becomes inefficient and do not last long. Alternators are much more powerful, last much longer, and with the advent of solid state electronics (diodes, transistors) all but elminated the generator because the alternator wil do it all.



To answer your specific question, manuals call them generators because well they do "generate" power. Its also what they've been called forever so its probably just habit.



I've heard talk of switching to 36V or 42V systems. GM uses that new watercooled alternator on the 32Valve northstar V8. The technology is there, it just takes a while to incorporate it.

 

[illflem]

Generators are pretty much a thing of the past in automotive applications but the guys who set the standards have suggested that the word alternator be eliminated in automotive terms and be replaced by generator. I received a bulletin from the ASE several years ago asking techs to change their wording. Explanation was to simplify the confusing terminology. No idea why the word generator was chosen over alternator but the shift is slowly coming about, in a few years you probably won't hear the term alternator.

 

[Doc Tinker]

Hey! Some pretty good responces from you guys. I guess it all makes a little sense now. Back in the early 70s I was taught not to refer to alternators as generators. Just like an engine isn't a motor. Looks like time is changing all that. Thanks



Doc