5 replies to this topic

[MatthewsDad]

1968 Cooper positive earth

Hi, I'm considering changing the original dynamo to one of the alternator types which look like a dynamo.

There are various options with a big price range. Dynamator around £180, Dynalite about £420, Powerlite Lucas made in UK around £570.

Any feedback on reliability/ performance/ value for money would be appreciated. The mini is standard in terms of electrical load.

[whistler]

Unless you're running a full set of spotlights for hours or heavy ampage sound system then your dynamo is fine. Having just restored a 66SDL I retained the dynamo as there was no good reason to go to an alternator and chop up the wiring harness.

[JXC Mini GT]

1968 Cooper positive earth

Hi, I'm considering changing the original dynamo to one of the alternator types which look like a dynamo.

There are various options with a big price range. Dynamator around £180, Dynalite about £420, Powerlite Lucas made in UK around £570.

Any feedback on reliability/ performance/ value for money would be appreciated. The mini is standard in terms of electrical load.

My 1968 Cooper S positive earth had a dynamator already fitted when I purchased the car, it has worked fine in my ownership and looks the part, if you were to change I think converting it to negative earth at the same time is worthwhile as accessories (dash cam etc) are mainly negative earth.

Edited by JXC Mini GT, 27 November 2023 - 03:55 PM.

[floormanager]

I still run a dynamo in my '68s.  The only change from standard I have in the charging circuit is an electronic regulator as I could not get one of those horrid replacement mechanical regulators to work.  I fitted the electronic one under the casing of the original voltage regulator and it's been perfect.  I worried about fitting an alternator as on original wiring, so potential to overload (not an auto electrician so not an expert).

 

https://www.dynamoregulator.com/

 

[Steam]

Dynamos work well but as has been noted above the main letdown is the control box. An electronic regulator will make the dynamoo a great charging choice.

[MatthewsDad]

Thanks everyone for your advice. Think I'll keep the dynamo for the time being and explore the regulator option, which I wasn't aware of.