Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Good morning all I have a 55 400 coupe that is pretty nice. Lately I am getting a discharge reading on the ammeter and once she would not start. The generator belt is ok.

Forgive my ignorance but how would I check the generator with a voltmeter to see if it is putting out a charge?

If that's ok I'm thinking voltage regulator next. thanks MC

Voltmeter arm to ground. Rev the engine a bit. If nothing happens, ground the field terminal on the generator, and again test arm to ground and Rev the engine.

Nothing happens either time = repair generator.

Voltage with field grounded = adjust regulator.

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As a word of caution, when you do this test be sure to have the radio and any other accessories turned off. It would also be a good idea to have the door closed or the door switch plunger blocked down to make sure as many interior lights as possible are off too. If the generator is working, as soon as you ground the FIELD terminal the generator will start to produce the maximum voltage it is capable of producing -- probably between 16 and 20 volts -- and could blow bulbs or damage something else that was turned on. Only keep it grounded long enough to see if there will be a change in the voltmeter and make sure it is the FIELD terminal ONLY that you will be grounding..

With the engine running, preferably at a fast idle, try tapping on the voltage regulator cover with a screwdriver handle. That will often get a balky regulator working again.

thanks to all who responded. I think I need a voltage regulator. All the ones I've seen are for the Clipper. Any ideas for a source would be appreciated- best mc

Yours is probably Delco-Remy but be sure to get one for positive ground if your car is still wired the way it’s supposed to be.

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If it’s new production it doesn’t matter. Follow the instructions included (if any).

For used, follow the Clipper wiring for the regulator connections only, and adjust it per the Auto Lite regulator part of the manual.