Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Quote:

The above isn't necessarily true.

If the generator is charging the batteries terminal voltage should creep up to around 7.4 volts. If the battery voltage just sits there at 6.2/6.3 volts that indicates that the battery is fully charged but is not being charged by the generator at all. Note: check voltage rise by increasing the engine RPM to equil say 25/30 MPH. Terninal voltage should slowly rise to around 7.4 volts.

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A DC voltmeter does indicate polarity (Dirrection). If the battery terminal voltage doesn't rise when you raise the engine RPM the generator is not genen. Simple as that.

Okay, I wasn't able to try out the headlight test, due to the diaphragm on my fuel pump going out. That is ordered and on its way. I was able to get the generator to run as an electric motor. I let it run for about 10 min., during that time it didn't sound like it ran too rough. Yet, it wasn't completely quiet and smooth. Not sure if that is the reason it won't charge, or if it has something to do with the voltage regulator. Also, before the pump gave out on me, I was able to get the rpm's up pretty high with no change in voltage. And the GEN. light works now, "needed a new bulb". Is there a possibility that the cut out on the regulator was manually engaged? If so, how can I tell, and how can I fix that?

-Garrett

If the cut out is engaged when the engine is not running, the generator will try to motor but can't. It will overheat and possibly burn up. At any rate, the battery will discharge very quickly and you should be able to feel a very hot generator and wiring.

The cutout relay does carry a lot of load and consequently the points do pit and burn and can oxidize or even weld together. Back in the day, regulator contact service and adjustment was routine and sometimes even a necessity. Today, the skills are mostly gone and replace is the norm. Check the service manual to identify your regulator and which set of contacts is which. You can remove the regulator cover & look at the condition of the points. If they are burned you can smooth with a very fine point file -- no sandpaper or anything with grit or regular files. Just be careful not to get carried away or bend something to mess up the adjustment. Even doing that, you still may need to have things looked at.

So, more than likely it is a problem concerning my generator. I will still give the contacts on my regulator a look over. But today I am going to remove the generator and inspect the commutator and brushes for oxidation. Then I'll give her another try once the fuel pump kit comes in. Thank you Howard.

-Garrett

Just a follow up so far,
Got the generator out of the car to inspect and clean. The commutator was definitely oxidized, so I gave her a good clean. Gave the case a fresh coat of paint, and re-installed the unit. I tried to keep the car running but, the fuel pump just isn't pulling any fuel to the carb. So I won't be able to determine weather or not the GEN. is putting out any current till sometime next week. DARN! In the mean time I am going to get some brake fluid and bleed this new system.

I'm a little late to the dance here, but I'd be more than happy to help you out. You've gotten a lot of advise here to digest, so I won't add to the confusion. If you would like me to walk you through checking your generator feel free to give me a call.
Good Luck!
Jason