Weird voltage readings?

G

Gus

Member
Quick question for an electrical guru....

Why, when I try to check the output voltage of my powerhouse gen with a multimeter, do I get scrambled readings? I am touching the positive probe to a good ground (starter bolt) and the negative probe to the generator output stud. With the engine off, I see battery voltage of 6.6V, but with the engine running the screen rapidly 'cycles' with random/scrambled values. The ammeter shows about +15 amps (I have it set high for short runs while I restore the car).
The wiring is absolutely stock. Help!?

Gus
 
Gus,
High frequency radiation from secondary ignition is running your meter "nuts."
Us any old cheap analog meter. ("Old" technology is good for OLD CARS!) Bill W.
 
Got an analog meter today and it worked great. I have 2 digital multimeters and both suffered the EMF issues. Old tech for an old car works great. Thanks.
 
Yes, my (fairly cheap) DVMs go crazy when the engine is running.
Does anybody if a really good one (Fluke, etc.) works better?

Doug
 
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