Here's some info on the Waukesha units. I hit the 2MB RYPN limit on the other items. I wouldn't worry about supporting Edison batteries without the aux. panel. I've seen plenty of cars without one supporting Edison batteries just fine. Just put the strap on the resistor and trim the carbon pile regulator for 43 volts.

I'll send the big files (two manuals and another print) to the RPCA webmaster. Maybe he'll get them up on their site in the Resource Library.

Bruce Backus

The project manager wants me to confirm this: the risk of experiencing what he calls "thermal runaway", where the batteries heat up, the amps drop, the voltage therefore increases, and causes more heat, thus creating a cycle that results in the generator burning out (or other similar problems); is slim to negligible using Edison batteries?

We are trying to be cautious because if we break a part on the Waukesha, regardless of reason, we could very well be out of business. We don't want it to sit and rot like before, but we don't have a good source for replacement parts, and still have a Waukesha ice engine to get running (and we don't have a good understanding of the car's air conditioning system, unlike most of the other systems).

As long as the generator regulator is working and freed up completely, I wouldn't worry too much. Amperage is limited and the Edison batteries can take it. To recondition Edison batteries they were charged at full amperage in reverse, then drained and charged correctly.

I was afraid you might have an Ice Engine too. You'll need these then. Ones I've worked on I converted to R-134A, so you'll need to have the compressor seal rebuilt. An outfit by the name of John Crane will do it, just provide them the drawing. Also if the have the quick disconnects, you'll need new O rings, drawings attached. Outfit that made the disconnects was still in business in '97 anyway. Very helpful folks back then, about the only company that still make a part on the Ice Engine.

Here's the rest of the drawings.

Bruce Backus