Simple Test of VW Generator - Air Cooled Volkswagen - ACVW

A quick test to tell if a VW generator is probably good or probably bad.

[@fsodn]

As a side effect, testing the generator like this (at least with the field terminal connected to ground) will polarize it. Neat video!

[@iplaymytele]

So for a ( fact..! ) if the generator spins it absolutely is working …? Even though when ( I put a VOM on my generator, WHEN IT IS Installed in my Karmin Ghia…, it is not reading any output…??? ) what’s up with that….????

[@JamesBrown-126]

Where does the wiring for the generator light start and end because I don't have it on my buggy

[@uncontrollabledogs3791]

Those 6 and 12 volt generators are probably the most dependable gens ever made. Only the bearings wear out.

[@ocavant]

Agree. Usually the regulators are what go bad

[@MikeJones-js8gh]

Great test

[@MikeJones-js8gh]

Perfect

[@jeremysullins3625]

What if it does spin when you do that but still don't charge or is that possible

[@ocavant]

Check the regulator

[@gethric]

What if it smokes when you connect up only the +12V and earth?

[@marteloficina]

Nice video! I have one doubt, i alive near one river and i want make a little hidro powerplant just to turn on some LEDs and i want use the vw generator for that, i only need the vw generator or this genetator only produces power with battery pluged in?

[@jasonburnett1127]

So I just added 12 V to the D+ and it started turning before I even grounded it out. What does that mean?

[@ocavant]

If it is still installed on the motor and the motor is in the car and you are using the car's battery to test, and the negative pole of the car's battery is connected to the chassis, then the generator is grounded to the battery you are testing with. With the belt off it should spin if good.

[@vwmadness1591]

be nice to see how to do it to a 6v system

[@guidoguitar]

Use 6V battery

[@CMounsieur]

Use 6 V battery charger ... available in car stores .. I have one

[@johannb4393]

Pretty nice test.

[@guidoguitar]

Thanks. What's a shame is I thought I had video clips from two generators, this one and the one I talked about, that didn't spin until DF was grounded but is working on the car now. All clips that day "didn't take", weren't found on the SD card later.