Working on getting all the gauges to read on my 41'. Is there a easy way to test output from the generator, and then, from the regulator to the gauge. Have easy access to both from under the hood and a good multimeter and amp meter.
Yes. Is everything hooked up properly? If so take a voltage reading at the battery then start & high idle the engine, you should read atleast 1 more volt. 2 or more is better right after a start. If the reading doesn't change or is lower it ain't chargeing.
If the engine has been sitting along time and/or the gen or reg has been disconnected or replaced, it may be necessary to polarize the gen. To polarize, momentarily touch positive voltage (via a jumper)to the gen's B(bat) or A(armature) terminal. They are the same terminal but different manufacturers label them differently. Take care not to touch the other F (field) terminal.
If the reg is hooked up to the gen, you can polarize at the reg terminals by momentarily shorting the gen's B term w/the gens A term.
Now test for chargeing.
You can test the gen easily for voltage output after you've polarized it. Disconnect both wires (to protect the reg) start & high idle the engine. Take a jumper and short the F (field)term to ground. Connect your VOM red lead to the gen's B or A term and the VOM's blk lead to gnd. You should read nearly double the gens rated output. i.e. on a 6v gen you should read 9 - 12 volts, 12v gen 16 - 24 volts.
Theres tests for the reg but make sure all connections are good and tight and corrosion free and all gnds are also tight.
Good luck
Dave
