Generator

I had the generator rebuilt and put in a new regulator but the gen doesn't seem to be charging the battery. How do I check the generator output with my voltmeter? I'm not sure if it's a generator or a regulator problem

When you put the generator and regulator back on did you polarize them as a unit to get it started charging?

Yes, do polarize the generator first. To test the generator, put the volt meter from the A post of the generator to ground, then ground the F terminal. The engine needs to be running around 1200 RPM or more.

The problem is more likely with the regulator. Be sure the case is properly grounded. You may need to open it and clean the contacts. Don't sand or file, just clean with contact cleaner and blot with clean paper.

Bob, you ask " How do I check the generator output with my voltmeter?"

FIRST in the event the genny isn't polarized correct try to polarize it and then see what happens???????????

The gennys output depends on the RPM its turning and how much (if any) current the VR is allowing to pass through its Field coils. The gennys output is measured between case/frame ground and the ARM terminal and raises as RPM raises. The open circuit unloaded voltage for a 12 volt genny may be 12 to 20 or more volts but its what voltage it produces under a load that counts and that obviously has to be higher then the battery voltage to charge it.


"I'm not sure if it's a generator or a regulator problem"

That's EASY to determine by by-passing the VRs control function by dead grounding the gennys FLD terminal to see if she charges then??? If so then but NOT otherwise, the VR is bad or not well grounded or shes not wired correct.

NOWWWWWWWWWW to test the genny and VR and find the cause of no charging RUN MY TROUBLESHOOTING PROCEDURE LINKED BELOW which explains the VR by pass test and motor test and has more detail. But its only for a Class A system mind you

Go here for how to test: http://www.ytmag.com/cgi-bin/viewit.cgi?bd=jd&th=458743

John T
John Ts Charging Troubleshooting

With the engine at fast throttle use a volt meter set on DC volts. Touch the terminals on the generator with the probes. Should see 14 volts. Hal

what's this generator on?