Hi Ya'll!
This morning my dependable-as-a-Swiss watch 544 left me stranded, for the very first time in 5 years! The generator froze, caused the belt to burn up and finally rip, so no water pump, no fan, no charging.

I would like to just have the generator rebuild. I have read a bit 'bout alternator conversions but they seem to be pretty involved with wiring and all. Where would I send my generator for a rebuild?

Thanks,

Bernard
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My Volvo, now on 6 pages at: http://www.californiaclassix.com/Bernard/PV544-1.html

Thanks guys.
I have the generator out, and it's frozen. My shop helper this morning pressure washed it. His brain was probably frozen, I don't know. I asked him if he also pressure washes his TV set to clean it. I'm weighing my options right now.

Ron, I sent you an e-mail yesterday.
Skeetman, I may take you up on your offer.
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My Volvo, now on 6 pages at: http://www.californiaclassix.com/Bernard/PV544-1.html

I have a very good generator that I removed from my 544. If you want it $60.00 shipped to your door.

I have limited mechanical knowledge but easily replaced the generator in my 444 with an alternator. It's a one wire replacement and with my alternator purchase, I also purchased a universal bracket that I was able to line up the pulleys with no difficulty. I highly recommend the switchover and you'll get more current even at idle.

If you are in a big city there should be shops there that will rebuild your generator. Check your yellow pages!
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George Downs Bartlesville, Oklahoma

Bernard;

If yours was the type with oiling provisions at the bearings and you let it run dry, shame on you for not giving it the scheduled service it deserved...if you kept it lubed but it still seized, it's certainly time for some major maintenance, possibly replacement...I suggest removing and seeing if the bearings can be saved/replaced...once mechanically in order, it will likely be fine again (and you will remember to keep it periodically lubed, like at every oil change for instance). If it cannot be saved you need to consider options of replacement with a used unit or changing over to an alternator.

If you choose the later and are not in a position to "cobble together" something, I can help with an engineered kit, wiring changes are not terrible, and you can rest assured that the charging system will once again be reliable and even improved in many ways. See: http://www.sw-em.com/altkit.htm

Cheers

It would be silly to not replace the totally obsolete generator with a modern alternator. The wiring for most is the height of simplicity--some (like the Delco) only requiring one wire (well actually two-one for the dash lamp). Brackets are simple to cobble up as I did on my '68 144--or buy one ready made by BB posters. -- Dave