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There are three basic type of Datsun alternator, each with their own wiring system.
- Early Datsun Alternator (4-pin rectangular connector)
- 1970s Datsun Alternator (2-pin T-connector with external Regulator)
- 1980s Datsun Alternator (2-pin T-connector with Internal Regulator)
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Early Alternator
From the introduction of the Datsun with alternator (circa 1966), it used a Hitachi type with a 4-spade rectangular connector. There were equivalent Mitsubishi versions also.
1970s Alternator
From about 1970-1978 (in USA market), Hitachi type LT alternators were used. There were also equivalent Mitsubishi units which are interchangeable. These feature the famous 2-pin T-connector with external Regulator.
These use FN wiring. They have F and N cast into the back cover. An external Voltage regulator is required.
See main article: Alternator Wiring
35A units have plastic bits
The larger 50 and 60A units have no plastic parts
1980s Alternator
From about 1979 (in USA market), Hitachi type LR alternators were used. There were also equivalent Mitsubishi units which are interchangeable. These feature the famous 2-pin T-connector BUT use no external Regulator. They are internally regulated, which makes them more reliable as they use an IC (solid state) regulator.
These use LS wiring. Some has L and S cast into the back cover, but some are unmarked.
See main article: Hitachi_LR_Alternator#Wiring
Mixing and Matching
It is possible to use a different type alternator in your Datsun than what it was designed for. But you need to make slight modification to the wiring.
IR Alternator In Older Car
This is very do-able and quite simple. For detailed information, see Hitachi_LR_Alternator#Wiring
Older Alternator in Newer Car
For Datsuns originally fitted with internally-regulated alternators, it is not recommended to fit an older alternator, as the IR alternators are generally less expensive and more reliable.
You will need to create a sub-harness with wiring for an external voltage regulator. New Voltage Regulators in USA generally cost more than an internally-regulated Alternator!