update 1.20.99
Paul Hamon of Alton says he now has the basic measurements etc needed to
proceed with the design. More help may be needed later, but he sounds very
optimistic about having the Indian Alton on the market soon. Stay tuned
for further updates!
update 1.9.99
Paul Hamon of Alton writes: The
article in The Antique Motorcycle was written after correspondance with
a french consultant who works for us from time to time. He anticipated
a bit about replacement generators for Indians, as those are "only" in
process of development; they need some finishing work, longer bench testing
and road tests etc. Meanwhile I'm convinced we are close to the goal and
they should go on te market soon. This AC generator's (called "alternator"
by must people) main design is based on the 3" Alton we do for british
motorcycles. The main differences are the 3-1/2" outside diameter and the
central drive shaft design (as opposed to the 1/2" offset driveshaft design
of Altons for british bikes). At first 3-1/2" central shaft alternators
were not specifically done for Indian motorcycles but to fit others (french
classic Terrot singles, classic cars, Laverdas etc). Units are supplied
with rectifier-regulator located in a separate box. Unfortunately my information
on Indian motorcycles is poor and incomplete. So I was very interested
to visit the Virtual Indian website. I am quite impressed by the quality
and quantity of info (professional or not). This proves the high level
of interest and activity around Indians. Some french owners called me years
ago saying it "could" be interesting to do a generator for Indians. This
was not enough to develop a specific unit then. The idea came back when
we considered the central drive shaft unit for other motorcycles. So if
you wish YOU COULD HELP TO MAKE THINGS GO FASTER AND EASIER. We need the
following information on various models of Indians (you can imagine we
don't know the details of all models!) ¤Genuine generator dimensions
(outside diameter and length). ¤Description of generator drive system
(type: chain, sprocket, pinion, v-belt..., drive shaft design, engine to
generator drive ratio...). ¤Engine rpm at ordinary cruising speeds.
This is of course a little dificult to answer as probably people do not
use their motorcycles all the same way... but an average or estimated figure
is better than nothing!! Your remark on low revs is of course very important
(I wrote Paul that Indians needed the electrons flowing from lower rpm
than many other bikes. Moen). ¤Description of fitting parts
(strap, clamp, cradle, bolts etc). ¤Description of electric equipment
"expexted" by users (range of bulbs, battery or not, ignition system etc..).
We need an idea of the electric consumption. The above information is very
important to us, because the more common parts for different models we
can do the better it is. This could avoid useless cost and waste of time.
I am very interested in going further on replacement generators for Indians
if it is worth the challenge. Paul then asks us to let him know if we
think it's worth it... For those reading this who isn't also subscribing
to the Virtual Indian Mailing List,
I can say that a list of questions were posted there today for feedback
to send to Paul. Moen.
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