connection to alternator

[FiatJim]

On mt '72 Spider, the wires to the mounting bolt have a common round crimp on style connector. The challenge is that the mounting stem is so short that it makes it impossible to get a socket onto it,.. and to use an open end wrench I have to push down hard on the wire/connector. Given the history of electrical issues with the Fiat cars,.. this can't be a good way to go.

Hence my questions,.. is there a better connector to use which would allow a socket or wrench?

Jim

[ventura ace]

I'm not quite understanding the problem. Can you get the nut started by hand? That's what I would recommend, then put a socket on it to snug it up after you get it hand tight. Maybe you have limited space to where that is not possible -- I have plenty of room to work around mine (1970). Maybe experiment with different extensions or swivels if there is no room to get a tool in the tight space.

Alvon

[pope]

You could install the round wire connector upside down next time so the crimp is facing away from you and gives you a flat surface to wrench at. You might have to install a washer first to raise the area away from the housing.

[baltobernie]

Careful under there, Jim. That big green alternator output wire has a direct path to the battery, and the alternator case is grounded. It's easy to do some unintended welding

Perhaps a PO replaced the crimp-on terminal with an incorrectly-sized one, but that terminal should be "flat", i.e. the wire should be meeting the terminal at 90º. Someone may have bent the terminal rearward, causing interference with your socket.

[FiatJim]

I appreciate the warning about the direct connect to the battery. Fortunately, the battery was removed for winter storage.

I will try and post a picture in the next few days,.. tomorrow's low is supposed to be 4 degrees - - so I'll be waiting until the temp hits at least 20 degrees.

I suppose my question is more design versus practical. I can get to the nut with a open ended wrench, but the nut is beginning to get rounded off. The actual connection between the wire(s) and the post are fine. I am just concerned about how many times that nut will handle being remoevd before it becomes nearly impossible

[pope]

Jim,
I give you permission to take that nut up to the hardware store, match it to a shiny new one and install it.

Next.

[FiatJim]

Gee sir Pope,.. thanks for the "go ahead".

[spiderrey]

Maybe its as easy as finding a longer nut? They make them in several sizes. There are 2 nut and bolt specific stores just domwn the street from me.........