Cut-out

Brianfrench65

Brianfrench65

Well-known member
Will I prevent overcharging my battery if I install a cut-out with the internal diode?

GENERATOR CUT OUT WITH DIODE INSTALLED
For Year(s): 28-39

Diode eliminates sticking points. This is a 100% copy of the original except for the modern internal diode, which will give better performance. Designed for a full 20 amp continuous duty for 6 volt positive ground systems. Cadmium plated. Terminal connector, insulators and screws (# 15650) are included.

Part #15590

I appreciate the knowledge and wisdom, provided to help me learn.

Thank You.
 
I am sure others will answer this better, but I will give it a shot. The cutout determines the generator voltage at which the battery begins to "get a charge". It also prevents the power from the battery from flowing from back into the generator when the vehicle is not running.

It does not, in stock form, regulate the generator output. The output, in stock configuration, is a function of the position of the third brush within the generator, and engine RPM.

There are some options, only one I am familiar with. Tom Wesenberg ( I hope I got that correct), a frequent poster on this forum, sells a solid state regulator that replaces the third brush that is hidden from view once installed. It is a very easy install with the generator removed from the car and has proven to be a great solution to the task of voltage regulation. With this device, the stock cutout is retained. I can highly recommend this device. The tech help that was included was of great value to me as well, and led to a much better understanding of the system.

My understanding is that there are also "cutouts" out there for sale that replace the stock cutout and have a regulator built within them. I have had no experience with these, so others will have to chime in about these.

My understanding is that many of the modern, replacement cutouts are not of equal quality to the originals and that, to me, would be a reason to avoid them if possible. Perhaps someone can address this issue better than I.
 
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Brian, the description you give sounds as though it is indeed just a diode in which case it will not prevent overcharging of the battery. To prevent overcharging you need a "cutout" fitted with a regulator; this allows a high charge to the battery when the battery is low and as the battery becomes charged the current permitted by the regulator declines and eventually when fully charge the current drops to a very low charge (usually 1-2 amps). http://funprojects.com have an excellent selection of gismos.
 
Yep, what the fellas said. The cut-out is just a switch. To help prevent over charging just adjust the third brush to a lower charge rate and keep track of the battery water.

If you decide on a regulator, I'm a fan of the one made by Tom W.
 
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