Generator AMP Meter readings Problem Fixed thanks

Joop

Joop

Well-known member
Hi,



Removed my original generator as it is making noise, the Amp meter was registering perfectly on that one.



Installed a spare generator (very quiet) But now my Amp meter shows 10 amp. discharge when running in idle and 10 amp. charge when driving. What could be the problem. Joop
 
Last edited:
Re: Generator AMP Meter readings

Sounds to me like your cutout is not working (stuck shut). It lets the battery discharge at low speed when the generator is not putting out enough voltage. Charging 10 amps when running at high speed is OK, a bit high perhaps. You can adjust down.

Jim
 
Re: Generator AMP Meter readings

First, is the new genny bolted up tight? That's its ground connection.

Do you also see a 10 amp discharge with the engine off, switch on?
No = cutout or generator problem
If yes, with engine off, switch on, disconnect output from cutout, leaving horn, light, and terminal box feed wires connected to each other. Do you still see a 10 amp discharge with the engine off, switch on?
No = cutout or generator problem
Yes = problem elsewere.
 
Re: Generator AMP Meter readings

Thanks Mike

First, is the new genny bolted up tight? That's its ground connection. IS TIGHT

Do you also see a 10 amp discharge with the engine off, switch on? YES

No = cutout or generator problem
If yes, with engine off, switch on, disconnect output from cutout, leaving horn, light, and terminal box feed wires connected to each other. Do you still see a 10 amp discharge with the engine off, switch on? NO
No = cutout or generator problem
Yes = problem elsewere.

WHAT TO DO NOW?
 
Re: Generator AMP Meter readings

Something like brake light switch stuck on? 10 amps is a lot.
 
Re: Generator AMP Meter readings

Joop said:
Thanks Mike

First, is the new genny bolted up tight? That's its ground connection. IS TIGHT

Do you also see a 10 amp discharge with the engine off, switch on? YES

No = cutout or generator problem
If yes, with engine off, switch on, disconnect output from cutout, leaving horn, light, and terminal box feed wires connected to each other. Do you still see a 10 amp discharge with the engine off, switch on? NO
No = cutout or generator problem
Yes = problem elsewere.

WHAT TO DO NOW?
Click to expand...

I guess you are saying you DON"T have a 10 amp draw when the wires are disconnected from the cutout. I'd look for a cutout that is stuck closed, or a terminal screw that is too long and grounding out. Do you have both insulators on the cutout? The thinner insulator goes on the generator stud side.
 
Re: Generator AMP Meter readings

Thanks for all help.

BAD CUTOUT was the problem.

All fixed now.

Joop
 
If it's an original cutout, it's worth taking apart and trying to fix it. If it's a repro, the cover should come off very easily and you can take a look to see what went wrong. Many repro cutouts have very light contacts and don't hold up as well as original cutouts.

Many times cutouts take a bad rap, but I think the main problem starts with a poor connection in the charging circuit, which then can make a stock generator put out too many volts. I only use generators with a regulator, so too many volts is never a problem. I've never had any problem with original cutouts and that's all I use. After installing my EVR the cutout lives an easier life because the voltage never goes over 8, and the amps going through the cutout is just enough to keep the battery properly charged, plus the 1 amp to run the coil and whatever amps the lights take when I drive at night.

Remember, the amp guage ONLY shows what is going into the battery, not the total generator output. My amp guage always shows between 1/2 and 1 amps after a few minutes driving, when the battery if fully recharged, and it shows this during the day or at night, but I know the generator is putting out another 8 amps to run the lights at night.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top