Author Topic: Can you add a "W" output to an alternator?  (Read 3235 times)

August 17, 2008, 05:51:51 pm

red64chevelle

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Can you add a "W" output to an alternator?
« on: August 17, 2008, 05:51:51 pm »
So, I got a nifty VDO tach to be driven off the "W" terminal on my alternator, then after getting all set to install it, I find out I don't have a "W" plug.   :cry:

Can I add one to it?  Or if not, what alternator should I buy to get one.  Thanks in advance.


2003 Jetta GL TDI
1999 Beetle GLS TDI
1987 Cabby
1984 Jetta TD
1984 Rabbit GTI
1964 Malibu Convertible

Reply #1August 17, 2008, 08:15:26 pm

jimfoo

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Can you add a "W" output to an alternator?
« Reply #1 on: August 17, 2008, 08:15:26 pm »
Yes, you just need to hook a wire up to the alt from any of the phases before it goes through the diode. On a GM alt, you can use a ring terminal on one of the studs. I'm not sure how the diodes are in a normal VW alt though. Just make sure the wire won't get caught on anything rotating and that it is well insulated.
Jim
1966 Land-Rover 88" with 1.9 1Z which has been transformed to an M-TDI
TFO35 mechanically controlled VNT, IC , and 2.5" exhaust.
Driven daily

Reply #2August 18, 2008, 07:33:51 am

gigaz2

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Can you add a "W" output to an alternator?
« Reply #2 on: August 18, 2008, 07:33:51 am »
also make it as flimsy as possible, so that it fuses instantly if something goes wrong.
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