Re: Don’s 1937 (120) 138CD Deluxe Touring Limo

Posted by TxGoat On 2024/4/7 21:22:01

Some needle fluctuation is normal, but it should not bounce violently or come anywhere near pegging the needle.
Normally, after starting the engine and getting above idle speed, the ammeter will show a charge of 5 to 15 amps for a minute or two, then it will begin to move back toward zero if there is no heavy accessory load and the battery is in good condition.
Normally, the sounds from the regulator are too faint to hear

I think you have an intermittent short somewhere, or perhaps the regulator points are sticking. I'd look for a short in the wiring, the generator terminal posts, any of the battery cables, or any of the generator/regulator wiring. The engine needs a solid ground to the body and frame, and the regulator needs a solid ground to the generator. The generator could have an internal short in the armature or field windings, or in the brush holders.