MTFCA Forum

I have made a DRAFT of the first two videos in a three part series on the Model T 6 volt Generator System. I would appreciate feedback and suggestions from this knowledgeable group, so I can correct/revise/improve the video series before publishing it.
Part 1: The Generator System https://youtu.be/X3Wwq6auu8Q DRAFT
Part 2: The Generator Cut-out https://youtu.be/iNdf66hw5nM DRAFT
Part 3: Adjusting the Third Brush (not done yet)

My goal with this series was not to provide how-to instructions, since others have already done a good job of that. Rather, to explain the function and behavior of the system so that others can more confidently operate, monitor, and maintain it. I appreciate the depth of knowledge on this forum, and look forward to your feedback.

Very nicely done. Thanks for doing this. It will be a great resource for years to come.
Rich

Enjoyed them both. Think you need to stress that adjusting the cutout solenoid kick in voltage isn't regulating it like a voltage regulator would

TRDxB2 wrote: ↑

Thu Aug 25, 2022 9:42 pm

Think you need to stress that adjusting the cutout solenoid kick in voltage isn't regulating it like a voltage regulator would

Good suggestion. I see a few glitches and improvements that are needed too. Back to the "studio"

Here is the DRAFT of the 3rd video in the series. No one has seen this yet - it is new. https://youtu.be/uORqMdfdgSI Part 3 covers Adjusting the 3rd Brush, Flashing the Coil and Earthing the Coil.

I have revised/improved the first two videos for better audio, corrections, and adding the emphasis that was suggested here. Here are the latest drafts of the first two in this series:
Part 1 - https://youtu.be/1hyxs6P7hiE
Part 2 - https://youtu.be/eFGJnSRRPYA

I appreciate your comments and suggestions always, if you can stand watching my mug.

I appreciate the wisdom and experience of this group, before I make these videos available to the public.

Great video.
You asked for comments so here goes:
The correct (for relay type cutout) cut-in (charging) voltage for a 6 volt battery is 7.2 volts.
A word of caution is in order about correctly setting the generator charging rate:
During the Model T era drivers operated their cars on short trips and at low speeds. To keep the Battery
fully charged it was necessary to set the Generator to the Ford recommended 10-12 Amps charging rate.
This situation is not the case today; Today Model T’s are driven at higher speeds and on longer trips.
The Model T Generator has a capability to produce 100 Watts of power, but not on a continuous basis.
Setting the Ford recommended higher charge rate and driving at higher speeds and longer trips will will
exceed the generators capability and drastically shorten its useful life. This means you should keep the charging rate as low
as possible and still keep the Battery fully charged. Under normal driving conditions the Generator charging rate
only needs to be set for 5-7 Amps. The 5-7 Amp rate is optimal to keep the Battery fully charged. If you drive a lot
at night with headlamps you may find the 7 Amp rate better for keeping the Battery fully charged. After starting
the engine it only takes a few minutes to replace the current used by the starting motor. Setting the charging rate
too high will also require constantly checking and replenishing the Battery water.
The Model T world is paved with failed generators because many have been abused by setting the charging rate at the Ford
recommended rate and driving the car in today's environment.
Ron Patterson

Thanks for the insight, Ron. Appreciate.

I drove my car 118.7 miles this morning, with only one stop for gasoline. Road speed was around 43-46 MPH most of the way. I kept the lights on most of the way to avoid destroying the battery. With the lights off, the ammeter typically indicates 5 to 8 amps at road speeds. With lights on, it shows just under 0 amps.

TXGOAT2 wrote: ↑

Sun Sep 18, 2022 1:07 pm

I drove my car 118.7 miles this morning, with only one stop for gasoline. Road speed was around 43-46 MPH most of the way. I kept the lights on most of the way to avoid destroying the battery. With the lights off, the ammeter typically indicates 5 to 8 amps at road speeds. With lights on, it shows just under 0 amps.

Finally, confirmation that the Driver can be a Voltage Regulator too. Glad you posted it.
If it would go negative then drive with them on for awhile then turn them off for awhile - balancing. Driving with the lights on in the daytime is also an added safety factor, motorcyclists do it too (and they don't wear helmets. )

TRDxB2 wrote: ↑

Sun Sep 18, 2022 1:59 pm

... the Driver can be a Voltage Regulator too.

So, the nut behind the wheel is the voltage regulator on a Model T. Good to know

'Live' Youtube videos are published now:
Part 1 Generator System https://youtu.be/1hyxs6P7hiE
Part 2 Generator Cut-out https://youtu.be/eFGJnSRRPYA
Part 3 Adjusting the 3rd Brush, Flashing the Coil, Earthing the Coil https://youtu.be/uORqMdfdgSI

Thanks for the comments and suggestions!