MG MGB and MGB GT Tech Talk
Now.. this is something weird. Stripping out the interior of the '71 to do a bit of patching and POR 15 ing, then install the new interior... and I came across this sticker between the battery holes:
A little worn, but it says, "Warning.. Do not run engine with batteries disconnected."
Why would anyone run the engine with the batteries disconnected anyway? Something folks did in the early 70's?
Paul
Because it will make total toast of you alternator if you do!
Specifically it takes out one or more diodes in the rectifier pack. In an instant, I might add. LOL
It isn't the actual running, rather it is in the moment of disconnection as an arc occurs and the system spikes.
Jack
Why don't our new vehicles have that sticker on them now? Are we smarter or has technology progressed somewhat in 36 years?
PaulM Wrote:
On a new car, you wouldn't worry much about frying the alternator - it is only a $100 or so. The voltage surge might take out the ECU (computer) which can easily be over $1000.
If you are drawing a heavy load (lights, fans) when the alternator disconnects I think you *might* get away with it. But I'm never that lucky - it would fry for sure for me! :)
If memory serves me, running the engine with the battery disconnected was a DIY method to check for a faulty generator. If the engine could run without the battery in the loop then the generator was creating enough current. As mentioned previously, that of course, fries an alternator. I suspect that sticker served as a warning as the technology emerged and before generators went the way of the engine handcrank. just my $.02
Ken, that really makes sense of a sticker that I always thought to be rather obscure.
Anyone have experience with early generator cars that can vouch that the sticker didn't show?
Paul would be the expert but I do not recall having one of those on the 67.
Think they didn't have that sticker while the cars had generators.