Testing generator

Posted by Rscott77x On 2019/4/4 19:59:34

What is a the best way to test the current the generator is putting out? The Packard service manual mentions all this equipment which of course none of us have. Is it as simple as putting a multimeter on the battery with engine running and testing the current? I ask because when I drive the car during the day, normally the needle is in the center. When I put on the turn signals the needle will deflect a little to the left and then go back to center. But when I put on the parking lights the needle goes to the left of center and stays there. Eventually, it will come back to the center. It looks like the regulator is lazy. When I cut on the headlights the ammeter needle pegs to the left and stays there regardless of engine speed until I cut the headlights off. Regulator is about three years old and less than 1,000 miles.