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Generators were used in vehicles up to the mid 1960's. They used dc voltage and were slow to replenish batteries. You had to drive approx. 7 miles at 30 mph or faster just to recharge battery to level prior to starting vehicle. Alternators replaced generators in the late 1960's. Alternator use ac voltage to recharge battery and will charge battery at vehicle idle. Much faster and more efficient than the generator. It is not unusual for an alternator to last the life of a vehicle where a generator would require a rebuild or replacement during the life of vehicle.

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11y ago

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