Re: Question About my Generator...

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2012/3/7 10:39:17

PackardV8, I'd NEVER try that test on a prewar Packard with the earlier style simple generator control. Can't say what would happen with modern voltage regulators but when I did that on my 34 years back, the minute I revved the engine with the battery disconected, the voltage skyrocked, bulbs lit up like the sun, and seconds later every light bulb that was activated burned to a crisp. I assumed this was due to the removal of the resistance of the battery from the circuit. (PS - the reason I remember this so vividly is that even back then, those #3003 headlight bulbs were $100 each or more, if you could even find them.)

And ... doesn't the voltage reading tell you the direction? If it were reversed, the battery voltage would not go up with generator output. Or am I missing something....