Hello.
I have regularly researched on the forums and learned a lot but have never posted as a lot of this is new to me. In spite of reading previous threads about regulators I still have some hesitation and questions and would like to obtain others knowledgable opinions before moving forward. My NOS Delco regulator is overcharging.
My truck is a 1949 3800 essentially stock with a six volt system. The 216 engine is from a 1953 3600 ( previous owner installed ) with 45 amp generator. I replaced the entire 6 volt wiring harness with a reproduction 6 volt harness. The Gen has been rebuilt and successfully checked several times . All connections are clean and tight. Regulator is grounded to the firewall cleanly. I ran a ground wire from regulator base secured by one of the three regulator firewall screws back to the generator.
Originally I purchased an aftermarket made in USA regulator from a chain auro parts store and this regulator seemed to not kick in and show charging unless I really got the RPMs up. Even then that was intermittent. I assumed the cutout relay points were not closing.
Reading the helpful posts of Hotrod Lincoln and others I thought a NOS Delco regulator would be the answer. I ran the numbers and obtained a Delco regulator rated for 45 amps matched to my generator according to the Master Parts Catalog. I thought the screws on this regulator might make adjustments easier.
This regulator is overcharging. The ammeter needle never goes back to zero or close to the middle on the highway after driving several minutes. Fearing further problems with battery overcharging I took Gen and Reg off and asked local auto electric shop to check.
They agreed Reg was overcharging almost like for an 8 volt battery. They said I had a " bad regulator" . However I noticed they simply used a small handheld multimeter and did not check amperage but only voltage. I really was hoping and figured they would check it like the service manual but they didn't . I figured they knew more than me and I didn't want be rude . Then they tried to sell me an alternator but the truck should stay original in my opinion.
It seems this regulator adjustment is becoming a lost art or few want to do it.
I bought a large older multimeter capable of high amperage at a swap meet today with the idea that I am going to have to try this myself. I am fairly hesitant however for fear of causing more harm .
Sorry for the long background.... But I don't really don't know which direction to go.
Is this overcharging occurring because the cut out relay voltage too low?
Is this NOS Delco Reg really " bad" or just need adjusted ?
The manual I think describes adjusting the cut out closing voltage , then the voltage regulator, then the current regulator. Is this the correct sequence ? This seems different sequence than some of the posts .
Can I just try adjusting the screw counterclockwise on the cut out relay ?
Didn't intend to make such a long post but was trying to provide enough background. Sure wish I knew of some Stovebolters in Southern Indiana.
Thanks.
