generator problems

Bobber · Post by **Bobber** » Sun Oct 04, 2015 2:51 pm

Working on 1952 M38 early motor. I have a new generator and new solid state regulator that isn't charging. I polarized it and it was charging last week, but then I noticed the charge / discharge meter discharging. I grounded the gen case with jumper in the A or C pin hole and checked the B hole with the VOM and the starter. Still only produced 22 volts. BTW I did check to see if it was charging with VOM on the starter before I performed the test and the belts were tight. According to the results, the generator needs help.
Just wondering what the shop will tell me

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Post by **wesk** » Sun Oct 04, 2015 9:08 pm

I grounded the gen case with jumper in the A or C pin hole and checked the B hole with the VOM and the starter. Still only produced 22 volts.

Not sure what you mean in this quote. A&C are the primary 24 volt output from the generator. There are no tests where you ground them. B is the field input. To test the generator you full field it by unplugging the plug on the generator. At the generator's connector connect your voltmeter positive (red) test lead to pin A or C & ground the negative (black) test lead and then start the jeep and then attach a jumper from the field terminal B on the generator to the plus terminal of the battery and the voltmeter should swing full 32 volts. Only do this for a couple of seconds. If the generator put out at least 28 volts the generator is good and your regulator is the issue.

Bobber · Post by **Bobber** » Mon Oct 05, 2015 5:10 pm

I see my mistake. I'll check it again, hopefully I didn't damage anything.
Thanks