alternator numbers

[SteveC]

this is the best pic i have you can kinda make out the 38a. From what i could read in the dark it has a date code of c6tf- ##### didnt try to make out the numbers. Ill try to get a better pic or at least numbers when its light out.

Also i know they can be changed but this alternator has the dual grove pullies and unless the Heinrichs who bought the truck new before granddad got it in 68 changed it i believe it is original due to the paper work i found in grand dads files( least he kept good paper work for every bill he ever had)

[Dragon]

That is a Factory rebuild tag. The alternator might have been replaced under early warranty.

[SteveC]

very possible.. ill have to check if there are any other markings or tags on it anywere.

Still kinda sucks that i only have a 38amp alternator

[Dragon]

very possible.. ill have to check if there are any other markings or tags on it anywere.

Still kinda sucks that i only have a 38amp alternator

If I get someone paid off I will have a 65 from mine since I am going to a 1 wire 4G.

[SteveC]

i have a alt that was on the 72's 360 dunno i havent looked at it but if its not what i want i will keep that in mind thank you

[Dragon]

Okay, The main reason to switch to the 4G is my truck is my Daily work truck and I have two battery mounts I want to charge two batteries and use one for tool and radio charging and truck aux lights for work. That and I want a little better stereo for cruising.

[SteveC]

that would be cool. I dont usally have anything powerful enough in my trucks to drain a battery that fast.

[Hawkrod]

Just a quick couple of points that may be of interest to people reading this thread. First, up until 1970 alternators were ink stamped with the information not a tag. Starting in 1970 Ford stamped the number into the housing due to the fact that the ink was washing away. Second, the familiar Ford alternators actually came out in 63 but were not common in 63 and 64 but when on to become standard in 65. The 63 and 64 version has a different rear cover with a plug on connector instead of screw terminals (now when you see one you will intantly recognize it! LOL). And finally, 67-72 trucks came with a 38 amp alternator as a base, depending on options ordered the alternator was upgraded from 38 to 42, 55, 65, and 70. Those 5 ratings are all that Ford offered on our trucks. The 65 and 70 amp units were the monster heavy duty ones at the time and could be found on Camper and Trailer Specials but originally were very rare on trucks, 55 was usually found with A/C etc... but the vast majority of trucks built just used a 38 amp unit. As time has gone on and electical systems and designs improved so have alternators and most on the road today are higher amperage than what came on these trucks. In the aftermarket, the cost to rebuild each size is the same so why build all the different sizes when you can just do 65's and it will fit anything that came with a smaller one? This way they only stock one size and sell a ton instead of doing different ones and having some that never sell! Hawkrod

Ink stamp 1965-1970 alternator sample from AMK, left is original and right is their restored one:

[fordman]

since the inkis gone how do you tell what you have then? will a parts store test tell what they are?

[Hawkrod]

Use Dragon's chart to ID teh internal plate if it is an original Ford unit. If it is aftermarket rebuilt you are on your own! Hawkrod

[l1k2gadd]

Some alternators had numbers stamped right in the case next to and along the front edge of the alternator starting at the hole that the long bolt goes through that holds the alternator in place. The numbers have the casting or part number stamped in them along with the amperage that the alternator is supposed to be. I went downstairs and found an alternator laying around but couldn't find the numbers after wire brushing the oxidation and paint from the case as best I could with short notice. IF I remember, and find another one with the numbers stamped in it I will take a picture of it and post it here. The numbers are real small and sometimes they are stamped real light in the aluminum case.

[Hawkrod]

Some alternators had numbers stamped right in the case next to and along the front edge of the alternator starting at the hole that the long bolt goes through that holds the alternator in place. The numbers have the casting or part number stamped in them along with the amperage that the alternator is supposed to be. I went downstairs and found an alternator laying around but couldn't find the numbers after wire brushing the oxidation and paint from the case as best I could with short notice. IF I remember, and find another one with the numbers stamped in it I will take a picture of it and post it here. The numbers are real small and sometimes they are stamped real light in the aluminum case.

Yes, I did specifically note that in my earlier response. I wrote "First, up until 1970 alternators were ink stamped with the information not a tag. Starting in 1970 Ford stamped the number into the housing due to the fact that the ink was washing away". You have to remember that in 1970 the alternator was actually still a fairly new automotive improvement and changes were coming fast and furious. Hawkrod