Rookie Wiring Question

[Taylor]

If you were putting an alternator on an early car (where the regulator is on the shroud)  could you extended the pink wire that comes from the front and run it to the starter?   Just cleaning up the engine compartment here.  I am pretty sure that's what everyone does but want to make sure. Thanks

[61SNRF]

That's hard to answer because I don't know of any VW's with the VR on the shroud (unless a PO stuck it there with sheet metal screws) or one with a pink wire in the harness.

Can you please clarify?

[johnl]

As I recall the 6 volt systems in a Type I had the regulator mounted on top of the generator.  On the USA versions of the '67 and later examples the regulator was mounted under the rear seat cushion on the driver's side.

I'm interested to see how this thread plays out.

[javabug]

I ran a Kymco monster cable directly to the starter on my '67. The regulator under the seat had already been eliminated with the alternator swap. I think the cable to the starter prettymuch rendered everything under the seat obsolete. Except the wire to the speedo light. I think.

The point is, I did this a few months ago, and didn't retain all the details in my head. 

[Taylor]

Ok, after re-reading, I  wasn't very clear in my question.  Regardless of where the regulator is there is a pink wire with a black stripe that goes from the ignition switch to the starter, there is a large(10-12 gauge) that goes from the headlight switch to the generator that is coupled with the charging light blue wire and there is a large wire that goes from the generator to the starter.  When switching to an alternator, could the wire from the headlight switch be lengthened and run directly to the starter as well?  I am pretty sure people do that but before I go cutting I was just trying to make sure.

[von-dart]

yes, the large (Red) wire from the headlight switch needs to go to the starter (or battery direct). you may be able to get away with feeding the wire through a grommet in the firewall, and crimping an M8 eyelet in place of the original connector. The small blue wire, from the (speedo) generator warning light, should connect to the push on terminal on the alternator. if it doesn't reach, extend it. That's basically it, providing the alternator you are using is the later type with built in regulator, which are mostly used nowadays. (just 2 terminals).
Oh, BTW the pink wires are probably red, but have faded with age!!
good luck.