Re: Generator polarity??

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2013/6/11 19:42:10

The first step in analyzing a no-charge situation should be to determine if the problem is with thr generator or the regulator, and this is most easily done if your car has an ammeter. With the engine running, just temporarily ground the FLD terminal at the regulator or generator. If the generator now shows a large charge (or if the battery voltage goes up if you don't have an ammeter) the generator is OK and the regulator is at fault. If it shows no charge, the problem is with the generator. Do not leave the field grounded any longer than needed to make the determination.

As to the generator "motoring" when you close the cutout points, that's why the cutout function is there in the first place. When the generator voltage is higher than the battery, the cutout closes and current flows to thre battery. When the generator stops running, the points open and disconnect the generator from the system.