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1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks Discuss the Fat Fendered and Classic Ford Trucks

Test Generator / VR w/ Multimeter?

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Old Jan 19, 2004 | 10:50 PM
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Test Generator / VR w/ Multimeter?

Is there anyway to Test Generator & Voltage Regulator w/ a multimeter?

Not getting a charge, swaped the gen & vr and still the same. Is there a way to identify which is not working?

thanks
 
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Old Jan 20, 2004 | 08:54 AM
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Just a couple of things to consider-
1. Did you remember to polarize the generator after it was unhooked?
2. A generator doesn't put out current at idle speed. Run the engine about 1500 rpms and check with the multimeter.

I just use a continuity tester but a multimeter should work.
 
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Old Jan 20, 2004 | 09:14 AM
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Polarize the generator? How do I do that? Its a 12v Generator & Votlage Regulator.

Thanks!
 

Last edited by MercM47; Jan 20, 2004 at 09:19 AM.
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Old Jan 20, 2004 | 12:26 PM
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With the battery connected, engine off - disconnect the wire from the field terminal of the regulator and momentarily touch the field wire to the battery terminal of the regulator. Normally you'll see a small blue spark. Reconnect the field wire to the field terminal.

I know it sounds too simple, but if you don't do this when you have the electricals apart the gennie may not charge. 12 or 6V doesn't matter.

There is a 2 page explanation in the shop manual on how to check the output of gen and reg with a volt meter.
 
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Old Jan 20, 2004 | 06:30 PM
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amazing how different the gennie sounds when polerized!
*blush*
 
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