Installing Sound in a beetle, with a Dynamo / Generator

[ChrisThomas]

Hi Guys,

As the title suggests, I want to install a sound system in my 1972 bug, that still has the Generator instead of an Alternator. I just wanted to see if this is not a good idea, if I should have it changed to an Alternator first. I've tested the output of the generator and if revving the engine a little, it will put out 14.7 V constant. This drops when the revvs drop and the output will be about 13.7V.

I want to put in a normal headunit, 4 speakers and a small Kicker amp, any thoughts?

I've had another beetle in the past which was also a '72 and it just had constant electrical problems, it had sound installed, not sure where or by who but was a similar setup to what I'm describing, it also has an immobilizer and central locking which is what I think caused most of the issues but the overcharging of batteries and all my other nightmares continued after I took all of that out.

Anyways, this Bug has been a superstar and hasn't given me a moment's trouble, it's been fully restored and runs great. I'm just nervous about causing problems. Any ideas?

 

[ToxicBunny]

Convert it to an Alternator before you start doing anything else.

 

[gfmalan]

Why not use voltage regulator to "cap" the max to the audio equipment?

 

[ToxicBunny]

Why not use voltage regulator to "cap" the max to the audio equipment?

the problem with the generator, is the variability of the supply, not the fact that it can peak up...

 

[TheOx]

Convert it to an Alternator before you start doing anything else.

This.

 

[Segg]

Convert it to an Alternator before you start doing anything else.

+1

They're not that expensive, and you can probably do it yourself on a bug

 

[ChrisThomas]

Noted, I'll look into changing it over before I mess with anything else. Thanks for the input you guys!

 

[rrh]

In days of yore - when I was running a Lancia Fulvia (equipped with a generator) - I connected my [small] sound system directly to the battery without experiencing any problems.

 

[Napalm2880]

As an ex '72 beetle owner, I stuck it out with the stock tape player but to be honest you're better off with a phone and headphones if you want to drown out the sound of that Flat-4 engine.