Wiring a generator into a Miata

Is that the dumbest thing you've read on the internet today?

I am swapping a Volvo B18 from a PV544 into an NA6 Miata. Yes, I know there is an alternator swap for these engines. No, I'm not interested in doing it.

I can add and subtract material just fine but wrangling electrical pixies is well out of my knowledge base and comfort zone. I've been looking over Volvo and Mazda wiring diagrams to figure out exactly what I'll be needing. I've found the Volvo generator wiring diagram. Looks simple enough.

I've read that the charge warning light is important? Do I actually need a light in that circuit or is it just that that circuit is important?

Can I just connect the Miata alternator output straight to B+ on the regulator?

If anybody sees any major faults with my plan please let me know.

The Miata alternator has the voltage regulator built in. If you're going to use the Miata alternator, wire it like the Miata.

I'm pretty sure you want to have the battery hooked to the generator output.

In reply to Keith Tanner:

Using the volvo generator, not the miata alternator.

In reply to Streetwiseguy:

Why not to the charging output from the voltage regulator?

Here I thought I'd be reading about an electric conversion Miata with a tow behind gas generator for hybrid mode.

If the Volvo part is an alternator, and not a generator, the bulb will be important. On the Ford version there is a resistor in parallel with the bulb, probably to keep the system working if the bulb blows. On a generator system the bulb is not needed. I put one of these systems on a small tractor and it was a big pain. I would have used a one wire alternator if I had one.

Why, why, would anyone go from an alternator to a generator.

After operating many years with generators, no way would I do this.

So uh, i gotta ask...why do you want something heavier, less efficient, and less reliable? Dont say to keep it old school cause if that was the case youd be putting that pushrod redblock in an amazon and not a Miata. Not hating at all or ANYTHING of that sort, we are enabelers here but this is one of thoses things i just have to ask why first.

The engine is already generator equipped and I don't like the commercially available kit as it has some issues with high RPM usage(racecar).

If it has problems at high rpm, you should be able to swap pulleys to slow down the alternator. Since you're racing, it doesn't matter if you're not getting anything out of it at 2,000 rpm, as long as you aren't over driving it at full bore.

In reply to buzzboy:

Engine has antique bolted on, so you change the wiring of the car instead of make a couple simple brackets? Doesnt make sense but eh whatever, your car have fun haha i guess you'll be the first to have a miata with a generator. I wont try to sway you and just leave you to it.