Electrical: Building an alternator bracket

[52-fan]

My 52 Commander came with a broken alternator bracket that was made from a modified generator bracket. I replaced it with a Studebaker bracket, but it was about 3/4" too short for my belt to run true. I kept intending to make a new one, but it was working and we still had not gotten the MIG welder going. The issue became more urgent when the Studebaker part broke into.
The only instructions I found were on how to convert a generator bracket for an alternator so I decided to build my own version and see how it works. The stock generator bracket is 3/8" thick, the Studebaker bracket is 3/16", so I decided to try 1/4". I think the 1/4" was as thick as I could have bent cold anyway. It was tough, but with a bit of hammering I got it done. I ended up welding the pieces with my oxyacetylene torch. Time will tell how this holds up, but it lines up very well. I made the space for the alternator a bit wide to allow for adjustment with shims if needed, but I got lucky with the fit.
I took it back off for pictures and some paint. The drawing is a combination of hand drafting and some lettering and touch-up using the Paint program on my computer. I hope it helps someone.

[swvalcon]

If your welds are good I don't see why that won't work. Nice job.

[52-fan]

If your welds are good I don't see why that won't work. Nice job.

It was not my first choice, but I tried to get good penetration and not just brush the top. I don't think I have gas welded anything this thick before. It took a lot of heat to get the puddle to form and flow.

[Studebakercenteroforegon]

Actually, what you started with was a original 1963 alternator bracket. There was a weak point, so a reinforced version was created and entered production. So, you could have ordered the improved bracket, 1560438, Studebaker International current catalog, page 217. List price $20.00. I think every ‘63 I ever owned had a cracked or previously repaired bracket on it. All ‘64 cars had the new and improved version. On my ‘63 models, I always installed the new bracket. As a parts dealer, I always keep a couple of new 1560438 brackets in stock.

[52-fan]

Unless the improved version moved the alternator 3/4" further toward the front of the engine it would not have aligned my pulleys. If the original one had enough length to allow drilling holes 3/4" from stock, I might have used one. I think the Studebaker alternator had the mounting tab(s?) placed differently. This one is a one wire that came with the car.

[(S)]

On the Stude Alt bracket, you weld about an inch and a half 'L' channel onto the back of it, and drill 1 new hole. Add a gusset if it is a '63. A GM 1 wire will then fit but you have to grind a bit off an ear, and some on the case..... Nice job on the one you made, probably better than a stock one...

[doofus]

Nice work indeed!!! Cany wait to see the truck. Luck Doofus

[52-fan]

Nice work indeed!!! Can't wait to see the truck. Luck Doofus

This is not on the truck. It still has the GM generator/power steering pump combo. This bracket is on the Commander.

[Michidan]

The Studebaker part was a bit "L" shaped. You've used nice heavy steel but consider adding a gusset along the side.
As you know 52-fan I've got the Chevy in my 52 and a lot of the brackets are home made. I thought my alternator bracket was pretty stout, but at higher RPMs it would start to really vibrate. I even threw a belt at the drag strip.
I've since braced my design up and all is good. Any maybe you won't be shifting at 6000 RPM. But go sturdy because a tight fan belt spinning does put a good pull on your bracketry.

[52-fan]

I thought about some sort of gusset, but I couldn't decide how/where to do it. Any suggestions?

[Deaf Mute]

I like your design... but I wonder about the spacing of the tabs & how you hold a thick enough shim in place while inserting the bolt? I am in the process of designing one for a Champion six in my '49 pickup.

[52-fan]

I like your design... but I wonder about the spacing of the tabs & how you hold a thick enough shim in place while inserting the bolt? I am in the process of designing one for a Champion six in my '49 pickup.

I just measured the width of the mounting tab on the alternator and added a little space for adjustment. I have washers of various thicknesses for shims. Yes the washers are tricky to place if the bracket is mounted. When I mounted the alternator for a trial fit I attached the bracket while on the bench and then bolted the assembly to the manifold. In my case everything lined up on the first try. Sometimes careful measuring pays off.

[Deaf Mute]

Thanks for the advice!