Dynamo?

[dubdaze]

Ok, new to this Morris Minor lark (used to working on VW'S, but the missus has a new Minor...)

Has an issue with the Dynamo (I think that is what it is..) as in it is not charging. So, can I change the brushes on it like an old VW, or is there somehting else I have to do to get a 1970 Minor 1098cc engine to charge?

Cheers..

R

[uclarge]

my best mate olly owns a beetle, he used to have problems charging it so he used to unplug the battery and charge it in his/my house! kinda lambe really! normally in my case if ur dynamo isnt charging the connections may be loose! if not id suggest getting another one, they only cost bout 30quid from morris minor centre! , if your missus is planning on using modern equipment in her minor it may be worth getting a alternator as theyre much more efficient than dynamos for charging! cheers, charly

[ColinP]

R,

Yes the dynamo can have the brushes changed. I'm sure you've checked the fan belt, connections etc.

The voltage regulator may need attention - there have been a couple of people having problems with that recently.

If I remember, it's easier to remove the Minor dynamo than the Beetle (easier to remover and re-tension the fan belt).

Colin

[Cam]

It's a LOT easier than a beetle (or type 2 van) and the front pulley is a lot stronger too!

[jojax64]

So is it easy to change the brushes, then?
I bought a new set, but I've not been brave enough to dismantle the dynamo (yet!)

[Cam]

Go on! Get the manual out and give it a go! you know you want to.......

[Willie]

YES it's very easy to change the brushes. remove the two screws
on the end plate, these pass right through the length of the dynamo
so it will come apart on their removal. If it is the brushes you will
see that the coiled brush spring is resting on the metal edge of the
brush box i.e. it cannot push the brush down any further==no charge!
If new brushes do not cure the problem, a recon one is very reasonable,
but do a voltage ouput check first as per workshop manual.

[Alec]

Hello all,
a quick check for a dynamo is to remove the fan belt and disconnect the main and field connections. Use a bit of wire to connect the field and main connection together then apply 12 volts to the dynamo terminals and it should motor (i.e. turn).

Alec

[jojax64]

My dynamo actually works most of the time, but I get worried sometimes because it takes a good 25 secs or so before the ign. light goes out at startup.
Mostly the light goes out straight away, as it should. You always suspect though that one day it won't!

[Willie]

JOJAX......suspect that the brushes are slightly sticky in their holders
just buy a nice new pair ready for when needed.