Re: Starter wiring help

Posted by HH56 On 2018/7/4 9:38:07

If you suspect the last owner had the polarity reversed, there are a few things in a polarity swap that I would suggest you examine or be aware of before any changes.

Nothing STOCK will be damaged in swapping back but if a previous owner did it on purpose -- say for using a phone charger or any aftermarket accessory such as AC or audio equipment and has also installed a hidden item like one of the solid state replacements for a radio vibrator or a rebuilt torsion level switch during the time polarity was swapped, either or both as well as any accessory could be damaged if you change back. You might want to examine for any possibilities like that.

If nothing is found then go ahead and connect the battery correctly. You might also check the coil and verify it's connection. The proper coil wiring will have the terminal that goes to the distributor match the battery ground polarity. For example, if the battery positive is ground, the coil + should be the terminal going to the dist. The coil works wither way, it is just more efficient if connected properly. No ammeter on a Clipper so no wiring to check there.

The voltage regulator is a question. The stock regulator could be designated for a positive (55) or negative (56) ground but if it has been changed to a universal replacement then no worries. No one has ever explained (at least that I have seen) exactly what differences there are in a regulator so that it is designated for positive or negative ground and what symptoms show if the wrong one is used. Just one more thing to be aware of.

After the battery is installed and the generator is re-polarized, we will assume the generator is in good condition and all will be well. If still no charge there is a quick test to determine if the generator or regulator is most likely at fault.