Does anyone know of one that can supply a stable voltage for 60s era Fords/Mercurys? In other words, one that does not have the voltage swell and sag with the motors RPMs.
I'd leave the original right where it is, in the engine compartment, if looks are important to you. Then simply use an alternator with a built in regulator. That way, everything under the hood looks original, despite the hidden regulator taking care of business. If you really want an original device to regulate voltage, have it repaired. I'm sure, an electronic technician can diagnose and replace any failing component
Unfortunately, those made before, I think, 1974, were mechanical. It would be easy, though, to make one that looks old, but has the electronic guts. The plug's exactly the same, and it's plug 'n' play, so all you'd need to do is remove the old cover, and swap it with the newer cover. Bolt the cover down and install it.
One style here. All the parts stores can get the same style. Replaces the point style with a solid state style.
Does your 63 still run a generator? If so that is how most act as you described. I changed my 63 over to alt. Back in the day we had to polorize the regulator when we changed them.
If you have points you can upgrade to the Duraspark II system. http://www.classicinlines.com/DSIIswap.asp
If your interior lights are your problem the rheostat in headlight switch is probably dirty or failing. Sometimes can be cleaned.
No problem, I just want a constant voltage, mostly so I can wire in a couple more USB charging ports without fear of the surge and sag with the engine RPM. Looking at Shop Manual, I don't see the instrument panel has it's own regulator either.
There should be a constant voltage regulator for your guages on back of instrument panel. It is connected to fuel and temp guage and maintains an averageof 5 volts. It is usually fed from key switch by black/green stripe wire.
I suspect the lights aren't fed off that. The dimming/brightening is what I'd like to solve too. I think I can do it as the power has to come from the starter solenoid. I can find the correct wire and see what the current draw is, I can hookup an external regulator I had picked up earlier. This is mostly just a tinker project with no real issue to solve.
