I have a stock 56 F100 with a Y block (272). I have gone through several rebuilt generators and would like to convert to an alternator. I have heard that alot of people use the single wire GM alternator. My questions are:

1. Is this a good idea?
2. What parts will I need (alternator, regulator, etc.)
3. How do I mount the alternator - currently, I have a stock setup with a single belt.

Any information you can provide would be helpful. I am tired of a weak spark and dim lights!

 

i have done this using single wire on an mg and using a ford alternator and regulator on a 54 ford f100. both ways will work fine. the single wire cost more to do, but the regulator set up took more time.
if you get a wiring diagram from later model ford car or truck, you can figure where to graft in the terminals . the other way is to contact some body like so-cal pickups and get wiring from them.
be aware if the generator is 6 volt, you will have to change accessories and gauges to work. can step voltage down to some items, but not all. places like so-cal offer 12 volt wiring harnesses and things like wiper motors etc.

 

Thanks for the info...my system is 12 volt originally (56), so i won't have a problem with stepping down voltage. Is there a year of alternator (either Ford or GM) that i should be looking for?

 

the gm single wire can be purchased already converted or you can do it yourself with a kit that is available from marine suppliers and some auto parts distributors. itdoesn't matter too much what year. just get a high amperage one.
the ford unit i have used was for a 76 f100 truck.
the swap is straight forward for the ford. you have the field terminal, the stator terminal, the ground and the battery terminal.you graft these into the harness using the regulator and you have modern system. the biggest advantage is low rpm charging that the generator could not do.

 

Converted a 59 Ranchero and a 64 Galaxie - no big deal. Recommend using a 1965 and later Ford alternator using an external regulator. They are inexpensive, available, simple to wire in. Suspect you will have to fabricate your brackets - use heavy steel and match your alternator pulley to your existing fanbelt. Depending on whether you have an ammeter or dash light will determine how to do the wiring. Also need to get a regulator harness, new or used. If still interested I'll try and talk you through the wiring.
Good Luck

 

Check with Zoops for the bracket. Their brackets adjust front to back to facilitate lining up with the crank pulley. I use the GM one wire, 100 amp in my '82 with the Zoops bracket on my 351W. Power Master makes a new one for around 120 bucks and it comes chromed with a chrome pulley. I had to completely remove the external Ford regulator, then just wire the primary lead to the proper post on your solenoid. Get a voltmeter and hook into your system (I couldn't figure out how to hook up the ammeter from my dash gauge). You should generate 14.5 volts without power equipment on.

'82 F150 2WD w/351W (orig 300 I6)
Slik

 

Sacramento Vintage Ford (phone 916-853-2299) has a single
wire conversion regulator that bolts to the back of a ford
alternator for $38.00. A single 10 guage wire is all thats
needed to hook it up. It says you can use it with or without
a charge light. They also have a note that they sell custom
alternator brackets. They sell stuff for 1948-1966 ford pickups.