Self Exciting Alternators 1

[guilio2010]

I want to confirm my thought process on the alternators we use. We have various engines with a 12180-SEN alternators. This alternator from my research is self exciting so we would just connect the battery positive to the Batt terminal post. From here, the alternator will adjust the charging output depending on the voltage reading it gets back. This is all internal to the alternator. Correct?

There is a T connector in the base. Since this is self exciting, there is no reason to connect anything to this connector? If so, what are the 2 post for? Ignition and Sense? If so, what are these really doing or why would you need them?

Thanks,
guilio

 

[TugboatEng]

Many times they are for a tachometer drive on a diesel engine.

 

[waross]

They may be for a charge light.

Bill
--------------------
"Why not the best?"
Jimmy Carter

 

[Tmoose]

"We have various engines with a 12180-SEN alternators."

I'd expect the owner's manual for any of those engines to have a wiring diagram.

Are there letters on the alternator near the T connector ?
Or a symbol on the manufacturer's label?

http://www.rv8.ch/images/articles/2004112513263691_3_original.JPG