Generator Output Capacitor (Condenser)
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Postmaster
Joined: Mar 2000
Posts: 3,730
Likes: 13
From: Waynesville, OH
Generator Output Capacitor (Condenser)
I've been rebuilding my generator and noticed that there is a 0.8 microFarad capacitor with the positive lead attached to the generator output and the negative lead (the capacitor case) grounded to the generator case. It looks just like a standard capacitor (condenser) you'd find in a distributor. I can't find a capacitor in the parts books for any of the generators that were originally used on the 1956 trucks.
I'm wondering if somebody added it when the aftermarket radio was added? The capacitor could cut out comutator electronic noise from the generator that the radio might pick up. Anyone know if this capacitor addition was commonly done when adding a radio?
I'm wondering if somebody added it when the aftermarket radio was added? The capacitor could cut out comutator electronic noise from the generator that the radio might pick up. Anyone know if this capacitor addition was commonly done when adding a radio?
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 2,119
Likes: 2
From: Southern New Hampshire
Generator Output Capacitor (Condenser)
George, it was common to have a capacitor at the gennie, regulator and even the horn relay when adding a radio. Typical value was .5 mFd altho anything from about .2 and up works OK.
Ford installed them when the radio was ordered from the factory otherwise it was a dealer or user install.
Ford installed them when the radio was ordered from the factory otherwise it was a dealer or user install.
Senior User
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 150
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From: Western Shore of Virginia
Generator Output Capacitor (Condenser)
George; Carl is correct it will help take out the (wine) from the generator,I have seen them used on marine applications as well for alternator noise reduction when VHF raidios were installed JIm VA.
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Postmaster
Joined: Mar 2000
Posts: 3,730
Likes: 13
From: Waynesville, OH
Generator Output Capacitor (Condenser)
Thanks a lot guys. The one on my generator looks like it's got about 40 years of use on it, but it actually tested OK. I may just clean that bugger up and stick it back on there. OTOH, a new one is so cheap I probably should just replace it. 
