1964 Alternator black plastic cover purpose?

[stevetheweave1]

What is the purpose of the black plastic cover on the backend of the alternator? I think it Impedes airflow for cooling and am wanting to leave it off.

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[vermbird]

should have a black painted splash shield with fiber flap installed. also a rubber dust boot which is what i think you are talking about. this is correct started in 1963. see page 219 wm wonder book "Thunderbird restoration guide, 1958-66" would not discard does not hamper airflow. i can send you a picture if you like.

 

[biddle]

Please use the 4 digit model year in your subject, this aids in site searches as well as google searches. This has been updated for you.

 

[stevetheweave1]

After doing some more digging I found this link about water shield cover. Not that I will ever drive car in the rain but I am planning on getting my kicks on a RT. 66 trip so back on it goes. http://www.tbirdgarage.com/Site_2/63_M_Roadster_Albums/Pages/Alternator_Details_II.html#10

 

[doug7740]

Steve.

My wife and I are planning a trip on Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica in September. We will be driving her 2004 Retro Bird instead of my 55 Thunderbird. Not that I don't think my 55 wouldn't make the trip, I guess driving across the desert in a car with no air conditioning has something to do with it.

The company that is planning the trip is called Two Lane America.

www.guidedroute66tours.com

doug7740
1955 Thunderbird Blue

 

[BigClay]

What is the purpose of the black plastic cover on the backend of the alternator? I think it Impedes airflow for cooling and am wanting to leave it off.

I have a ‘64 Convertable. Because the alternator (new for ‘64) was mounted low, I guess they thought it would be good to shield the backside of the alternator. I removed the dry rotted shield from my car 2 years ago, and have driven in the rain since. No problems. I even converted my alternator to an “internal regulator” still with no problems. If you are worried about it, you could “flip/180” your alternator (like a Mustang)to get it up higher. Then, that shield won’t fit.