VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1937-1945 1938 Chevy 4-terminal Voltage Regulator

Why was the 4-terminal original '38 voltage regulator upgraded so quickly? Billu38

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Classic-Antique-Car-2542/2012/4/voltage-regulator-questions.htm

This discussion should answer your question.
Jim

Thanks Jim, very helpful. Unfortunately when we talk generator for every question I get answered I have 10 more questions! Here goes. I have a 1100004 generator...is it a 2 brush or 3? If it's a 3 brush does it have a fixed 3rd brush or an adjustable 3rd brush? My book lists it as a Group 1 (?) and it's replaced with a universal generator p/n 1100460 but this replacement must be used with a 005858 regulator (3-down terminals to my knowledge)and a 597667 pulley and fan system. I just love 38 generator questions! thx. Billu38

The generator for all 1938 passenger cars was a Delco-Remy model 1100004,with a fixed 3rd brush using an external(bolted to the firewall)combination cut-out and vibrating voltage control.The original Delco-Remy voltage control unit was model 5814,and was a 2 bobbin type with 4 terminals.This type of regulator was superceded by a Delco-Remy model 1118309 3 terminal regulator.
The generator for 1938 commercials & trucks was a Delco-Remy model 948-R,which had the standard adjustable 3rd brush & standard cut-out.

Thanks. Got it. So I guess with the 0004 generator and a 3-pole regulator I need to tape off the ignition wire? Correct? thx. Billu38

When you fit the 3 terminal 1118309 regulator in place of the original 4 term regulator,the wire lead that went to the ignition terminal is not used.It was only used to provide as near as possible full battery voltage to the fuel gauge and regulator voltage control shunt coils.
I've got a NOS D/Remy 1118309 unit with the instruction page for the change,and it says you can either just cut the lead going to the ignition terminal,or tape up the lug,fold it back on the lead,and cover with more tape.Hope this helps.

The 3 termial regulator was an opton in 1937 along with the 1938 type improved generator. Was used on other GM cars in 1937.