Is this an Alt or a Gen?

[classicfins]

Can you guys tell if this is an alternator or a generator? I've never seen a bug alternator
in real life before so I'm not sure. It looks like a generator to me. It appears to be a spun aluminum housing...
Doug

[Gorilla]

looks like a generator to me.

[Rsw]

Again, look at the wiring diagrams here and trace your wires. You should be able to figure it out. Use a multi -meter to check your voltage at all connections.
VW TRIKE WIRING

[Loner]

You definitely are working with a generator. The good aspect of your problem is that if failure is traced down to the generator, you can replace the brushes in the generator easily and for only a few bucks to usually correct the problem. You can't do that with an alternator.

[classicfins]

Ok, it is a generator. I thought it was... I checked it and it's pumping 11.9 volts at an idle and bumps on up when you bring the rpms up. It's probably just the old gauge that is the culprit. I can tap the gauge with my finger and the needle goes all over the place. I'd like to replace all the gauges and rewire it this winter, and at that time I'll probably convert it to an alternator..

[Rsw]

You definitely are working with a generator. The good aspect of your problem is that if failure is traced down to the generator, you can replace the brushes in the generator easily and for only a few bucks to usually correct the problem. You can't do that with an alternator.

Is there any advantage of one over the other besides the brushes??

[Bikerbozo]

Generator is creating DC. Alternator is making AC and using voltage rectifier to convert to DC. I am not sure, but I would imagine that alternator is more stable over time and that is reason most cars/bikes went to it. Less to service in it (no brushes).