Hi Rik, welcome to the forum. I'm surprised no-one else seems to have got here first, maybe they're not home from work yet..

It's a CAV alternator, I imagine supplying 24v and judging from the connector on the back using a screened cable so probably of military origin – perhaps for fitment to a communications vehicle, but I wouldn't rule out an aircraft.

I've no real idea of the age – CAV were part of Lucas for decades, and I think are now part of Prestolite, an American auto-electrical concern.

I wouldn't be surprised to find that someone here knows exactly what it is from.

The Part No. CAV AC5B246M doesn't yield much from Bing except for some bearings in Gdansk, but did throw up a company in Preston called DFJ Auto who handle replacements for CAV alternators – they may be able to help you with further information regarding the intended fitment.

I imagine in terms of value, it's really more of a curiosity/item of historical interest than anything, although the sectioning has been carried out very nicely – a military vehicle auction might be a good bet to find the right kind of customer, or simply go the online route and see what it makes..

Wait and see whether anyone else responds with better information – good luck with the sale

I will make an educated guess and suggest it was made in the 70's as I served my apprenticeship with Lucas CAV and the Diesel fuel injectors where I worked were made and fitted with similarly designed spec plates.

Martin P

It looks to be a sectioned AC5 alternator. The 24 probably signifies 24 volt. With the outlet being for shielded cable, perhaps the M signifies Miliitary.

The Despatch Number would allow traceability to the exact specification.

Sorry not to be able to offer more, but like Martin, my activities were Fuel Injection related rather than electrics, Warple Way factory produced electrical items, although the Diesel Lab, Electrical Lab, Materials Lab and Test Beds were in the same building in the next road, with the two locations connected by an underground tunnel.

Probably of little commercial value, and only of interest to someone who either collects sectioned models, or f Electrical equipment. Is there a CAV Heritage group who may be interested?

Howard.

Nick,

Yes it was, 4 year engineering apprenticeship, 5 year day release, eleven years as a machine tool fitter/maintenance Foreman.

Worked on everything in the factory.

Martin P

Answered