Information Needed

[Deleted User]

Hi all,--- Does anyone know the CORRECT polarity for a 1930 Essex? Is it positive or negative to ground? Thanks for the help. Cliff Minard.

EssexAdv

Cliff

Neg Ground

Lew

[Deleted User]

Thanks Lew & 46 HudsonPU, but I am still confused since the answers are conflicting. Geoff where are you? If in reality the 30 Essex was negative ground, it would be the first Hudson product with a negative ground system that I have ever heard of. Thanks again for the help. Cliff Minard.

Geoff

In fact all Hudson and Essex were negative ground at least up until 1931. I think the positive ground came in 1934, when there was a two-stage voltage regulation. Later on when the change came to more sophistated automatic voltage regulation with three-coil regulators the points on the voltage coil were dis-similar metals to minimise arcing and enhance longevity. However, to all intents and purposes it doesn't really matter on the earlier models if you have positive or negative ground - everything works exactly the same, and contrary to popular opinion, the starter motor won't turn backwards, nor the fuel gauge try to go the wrong way! The only effect if you change polarity is that the ammeter will read in reverse. However, if you ever do change the polarity of the battery, you must re-polarise the generator, as the residual magnetism in the field coils is what starts it charging, and if it tries charging the wrong way it won't work. All you need to do is momentarily close the cut-out points manually. Here endeth the lesson!

Geoff.

[Deleted User]

Thank you Geoff. I knew if anyone would know for sure, it would be you which also makes Lew's answer correct. Hudsonly,---Cliff Minard.

Unknown

My 31 Hudson is negative ground and I have the wiring diagram to confirm this. I suspect your Essex is also negative ground.



Good Luck

Steve