IF the generator is polarized properly, grounding the field terminal will put it into full output. Here's the test sequence:

1. Disconnect the "Armature" wire from the voltage regulator, and momentarily flash it to the "battery" terminal, maybe 1/2 second or less. You should get a pretty strong arc.

2. Disconnect both Armature and Field leads at the regulator, and start the engine. Check voltage at the Arm. terminal of the generator. There should be bewtween 1/2 and 1 volt present, and it should not change appreciably if the engine is revved up. This is called "residual" voltage. It indicates the generator has been polarized properly. No voltage? Polarize again, and recheck.

3. Stop engine and reconnect the leads at the regulator. start engine. Armature voltage should rise to 13 volts or more, and the ammeter should indicate a charge. Not enough voltage? Ground the field wire with a jumper lead (no need to disconnect anything) Voltage should increase without limit as the engine is revved up. DON'T EVER DISCONNECT A BATTERY CABLE WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING! THIS IS NOT NEGOTIABLE! I have seen voltage spikes of over 100 volts as a cable is disconnected. Ith's not terribly damaging to a DC generator, but if there's any type of electronic device, including a digital-display radio on board, you're running a real risk of cooking the electronics with a voltage spike!
Jerry

Last edited by Hotrod Lincoln; 10/30/2008 10:23 PM.
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