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General Information => Upgrades (non engine related ) => Topic started by: red64chevelle on August 17, 2008, 02:51:51 pm

Title: Can you add a "W" output to an alternator?
Post by: red64chevelle on August 17, 2008, 02:51:51 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.

Title: Can you add a "W" output to an alternator?
Post by: jimfoo on August 17, 2008, 05:15:26 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.

Title: Can you add a "W" output to an alternator?
Post by: gigaz2 on August 18, 2008, 04:33:51 am

also make it as flimsy as possible, so that it fuses instantly if something goes wrong.