6 Volt generator test

R

Rick

Senior Member
How can I test a 6 volt generator that has a Field and a armature post to see if it is working. I am trying to determine if I have a bad generator or relay as I am not getting 7 volts and the amp gauge does not show charging, only discharge when turning on lights. I have google it and it does not explain how to test the generator only. Car is positive ground
Thanks, Rick
 
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With a V/O meter set to DC volts, touch your black lead to ground and the red lead to the output post of the generator with the car running. Should get a voltage output reading OR if not its "really" bad.
 
Rick, I have posted this information numerous times before. At the voltage regulator remove the field wire from its terminal and connect it over onto the armature terminal (not the battery terminal). Start engine and rev up to about 2000 RPM and ammeter should show a high charge if the generator is working OK. If no charge then the generator is faulty. Please list what car you have when asking questions. Regards, Kevin.
 
And Rick, once you've done Kevin's test above and find your generator is charging....a happy result!!!...you can test the regulator by putting the black lead of your meter on the "BAT" terminal of the regulator and the red lead on ground...I like the ground screw on the regulator cover. If the regulator is adjusted correctly, you should get a reading of between 7.2 and 7.4 volts being sent over to the battery at the RPM's Kevin recommends above.
 
tubman, VOM red test lead to a good ground or base of regulator and black test lead to regulator Battery terminal or Armature terminal if you like. This is for a positive ground car. Should have 7.2 to 7.5 volts. Set VOM to DC volts. Have some revs up as well because generators dont charge at normal engine idle speed. Regards, Kevin.
 
koates said:
tubman, VOM red test lead to a good ground or base of regulator and black test lead to regulator Battery terminal or Armature terminal if you like. This is for a positive ground car. Should have 7.2 to 7.5 volts. Set VOM to DC volts. Have some revs up as well because generators dont charge at normal engine idle speed. Regards, Kevin.
Click to expand...

Thanks, answers my question also.
 
koates said:
Rick, I have posted this information numerous times before. At the voltage regulator remove the field wire from its terminal and connect it over onto the armature terminal (not the battery terminal). Start engine and rev up to about 2000 RPM and ammeter should show a high charge if the generator is working OK. If no charge then the generator is faulty. Please list what car you have when asking questions. Regards, Kevin.
Click to expand...

I had not heard of this test before and used it on the generator on my truck recently. It proved the generator was capable of putting out a good solid voltage and amps.
thanks Koates.

Mart.
 
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