Ive got a 78 k5 that I bought as a non running project that needed to be put back together. I didn't realize how bad off the wiring was and so ive just started over from the basics. I have it hard wired to a new ignition switch and got it to where it will turn over but my questions are do I need the alternator wired in to even get it to run, and if I dont and can get it to run how do i wire in the alternator to what I have right now? Its not street ready by any means and won't be for a while I just want to get it to run to see what im gonna have to do for motor and/or tranny work. Thanks

 

As long as you have a good battery, you don't need the alternator. Just remember that the battery will not charge and go dead after a while. The alternators they used back then were fairly simple to hook up. There is one lug on it for a large wire. I used #10 wire and ran it to the starter solenoid where the battery wire is connected to. The only other wire you need is one that is energized with the key turned on. This wire goes to the small connector that uses a plug. It's been a long time since I did this, but it does work.

 

Ok thanks. The alternator in it right now is the plug in style but im gonna get a 1 wire style that just goes straight to the battery, ive heard thats better for what I plan on doing