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Question
I would like to to replace my AM radio with a new AM/FM style, but don't know if the wattage will work with my 1960 Oldsmobile because it has a generator instead of an alternator. What kind of wattage can be supported by a generator? The replacement radios are 200 watts.
The output of the generator on your car could be 35 or 45 amps depending on the model and the accessories installed at the factory. If the generator is the original one there should be a tag on it listing the output. No with that said the radio that you are installing with a rating of 200 watts breaks down this way. 200 divided by 12 equals a draw of 16.6 amps at full volume. So the generator has enough to support the radio depending on what other accessories that you have turned on like the heater or lights. The problem with a generator is that it produces almost no current when the engine is idling meaning that the battery must support the entire load.
Brad
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Answers by Expert:
Brad Sears
Expertise
All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.
Experience
Automotive tech instructor.
Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's.
Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's
TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated.
Auto instructor for the following companies:
Fram
Autolyte
Holly
Carter
AMF
Ford Motor
University Of Conn
Blue Hills Technical School
Sugar River Technical Center
Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.
Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.
Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember.
Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.
Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.
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