Hi,

I have a Prestolite alternator (not sure of the model) on my 351w 1989 Ski Nautique.

My old wiring harness (from previous owner) had the exciter wire connected to the the Indicator Light terminal of the alternator, with an inline diode (feedback diode?). Without the diode, switching the ignition off would not cut the engine. So I have left it as is for many years.

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Here is a photo of a similar alternator. Which terminal is normally used for the exciter? The bottom left?

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I opened my alternator, and it looks like this...

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It has a post on the bottom right side ("?"), which is connected with a link wire to the Indicator Light post. This doesn't look standard? With the wire disconnected, I can't measure any continuity from the bottom right post ("?") to any other post. The link wire is in a bad state.

Can I connect my inline diode from the Indicator Light terminal to the bottom left terminal, to "make" a new Exciter terminal?

Thanks,

Greg

Here's a link to an Arco marine page that might help with your alternator

http://www.marineengine.com/parts/arco-marine-parts/page50.html" rel="nofollow - link

Top left should be helpful

I'm not seeing a lower left terminal that you describe in your alternator picture

It looks like there was once an excitation  terminal that broke off maybe?

Great, thanks for the link.

Yes, it looks like something was there. Under the black plastic is a metal surface. Just not sure where it goes. Or if I can just fit a new post/terminal.

Might be safest just to leave things as is...

I think so,