I'm converting to an external regulated alt. Have a simple kit, but I'm reading stuff about alternator feedback that keeps the engine running and I see diodes or resistors in some of the more complicated kits. Can anyone clear things up on this for me.
Also I'm putting in the "SS" gauge/tach pkg. from OPG that uses the stock harness set up and I'm gettin' a little scared about the resistance needed in the system and any diodes necessary. I also see some of these direct wiring tecniques to the alt. to clean up the engine compartment. I'd like to feed the main dash power, headlight relays and alternator sensing off a central terminal. Is that ok too?
Any guidance would be appreciated.
Just trying to head off trouble before it starts...
Kersh (with a 69 custom clone)

I hope you mean INTERNAL regulator, original car has external. You just need a good diagram of what to do, http://www.chevelles.com/techref/ftecref14.html

You basically need to make sure the generator bulb in dash is still hooked up to it, the bulb is the resistance it needs.

LOTS o good stuff here......read these http://www.chevelles.com/techref/

Yea, sorry. I did mean internal. Thanks for the links guys.

I'm converting to an external regulated alt. Have a simple kit, but I'm reading stuff about alternator feedback that keeps the engine running and I see diodes or resistors in some of the more complicated kits. Can anyone clear things up on this for me.
It depends on what type of ignition system you have. Generally its only a problem with ignition boxs like a MSD6al.

Also I'm putting in the "SS" gauge/tach pkg. from OPG that uses the stock harness set up and I'm gettin' a little scared about the resistance needed in the system and any diodes necessary.
No diodes should be needed. The only resistance wires (there are 2) in a factory harness is the one from the firewall bulkhead to coil+ and one from ignition switch to firewall bulkhead for the charging system.


I also see some of these direct wiring tecniques to the alt. to clean up the engine compartment. I'd like to feed the main dash power, headlight relays and alternator sensing off a central terminal. Is that ok too?
Any guidance would be appreciated.
Just trying to head off trouble before it starts...
Kersh (with a 69 custom clone)

The horn relay buss bar is considered the central terminal. See pic

http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/data/500/medium/Original_Chevy_system.jpg