Troubleshooting Voltage Regulators

[@Dazzzlah]

An excellent video. I hadn't used my Chevy for three months and the generator light was staying on. I cleaned the points in the regulator. It all works again.

[@Michael-st1hl]

Great to the point explanation of troubleshooting these issues with regulators. Clear and precise. So glad you kept your X on hold for this video…Subscribed!

[@atractorkid7]

Awesome 👍 I'll definitely keep this in mind when I start working on some winter projects. Thanks for sharing the info and detailed video, great work!

[@Thatdude405]

Your video was very helpful I'm changing the the voltage regulator on a Toyota Camry and I needed to know how to polarize it. Thanks for your input sir very helpful.

[@tigmantom6989]

Can't Thank you enough for your very helpful and informative videos. They have saved me many times working on the old Allis. :D

[@ZippoVarga]

That's awesome to hear TIG Man!! That's the whole reason why I do them. Helping my fellow collectors and tinkerers! Cheers! Zip~

[@olegs79]

"First ex wife chatting on phone, she's gonna have to wait a minute". Pure gold.

[@ZippoVarga]

lol...Yep....I'm still friends with my two X's and it's hard for their current spouses to understand how that's possible. I simply tell them, we divorced because we weren't a compatible couple, not because we weren't friends. Cheers!! Glad you enjoyed that lol. Zip~

[@AlvinHensley]

Thanks it makes sense to me can't wait to try it!

[@Swampwild1]

Thanks very helpful. I want to add a few details. Start by running machine then pull off negative terminal. If it stalls it’s regulator or generator. You can try this cleaning but don’t get your hopes up. It can look pristine and be dead. These points are very sensitive unlike distributor. Requires a spoon or ruffled file. 800 grit didn’t work for me. Part is $25 EBay. Test generator by activating from battery.

[@michaelamido7900]

Great video, installed new regulator wouldn’t charge polarized then worked great thank you

[@leviridge3307]

working old cars is what i love and this is great information,,thanks

[@ZippoVarga]

You bet

[@user-xi2rp5jq3x]

This has been a helpfuly video for me considering this is my first go with this old of equipment, one questing i do have pertains to what looks like a plastic insulator on the back of the regulator under all the riveted areas, if its cracked will that cause issues

[@historybuff9276]

Damn even after divorce they still try to keep a man out of his garage or mancave

[@Antiquetractorsetc]

You explain these things very clearly.

[@929rrdan]

Thanks for the info I've been trying to find this these other guys all say the same thing that the generator is bad i want to test the regulator

[@1968hambone]

very good info Zip....trouble-shooting and money saver brother!

[@sd90mac8]

Excellent Video, very informative, I will do this on my old 1958 FORD I put a new voltage regulator, and a new generator, back in 2005, n now it needs some tlc because it's now not charging, so I'll do this before I buy a new regulator and a new generator, thank you for your help,👌✌️👍.

[@johntruitt404]

Flew my 67 airplane today and by end of flight, my battery was dead! I always have cleaned the wire connection points but never the relay points. After watching your video, I'm sure this is my problem. Thanks for the video!

[@ZippoVarga]

I hope this resolves your issue!! Zip~

[@johnpalma7265]

When polarizing do you mean take the positive terminmal from the battery and simultaneusly contact the first 2 terminals on the Regulator?

[@heliarche]

My Scout has one of these big box type of guys. Maybe not the exact same thing but it's an air gap regulator(?). I wasn't charging one day and I gave it a bit of a knock with my knuckle and it started charging again. It's been fine since but I'm going to take it out and see if I can do something similar to what you've done. Ya know, the solid state stuff is supposed to be more reliable, but once it goes, it's done unless you're an electronics wizard and you *have* to fix it. These guys, if it goes, you have a decent chance to get it working again. I've been stuck in the woods with no sandpaper but I managed to get just enough crud off the points to get it home with a matchbook striker.

[@ZippoVarga]

Matchbook Striker!! Now THAT is the epitome of the term "Necessity is the Mother of Invention"!! Bravo on that one....learned something new! I can't count how many I've brought back to life with this simple little trick. Sure does save the ole wallet! Cheers my good Friend! Zip~

[@skippyjones4195]

Hey 👋Zippo thanks for sharing 👍

[@ZippoVarga]

No problem 👍

[@59chevt]

great explanation \, you make things easy to understand.

[@ZippoVarga]

Thanks 59!! I do my best to explain things without all the technical jargon.

[@kipblack7196]

Hi Zippo, Kip here from PA. What causes the ammeter needle to dance back and forth? Thanks for the help with the head for my "Shoblower". Another great video

[@ZippoVarga]

Hi Kip, once your battery is fully charged, the Regulator shuts off power going to the battery. But, it does this in a sort of "Float" mode where it kicks in and out of charge rapidly. This causes the Ammeter to jump. There is nothing wrong with your charging system. It's completely normal. If you swapped out the Ammeter for a Voltmeter, you wouldn't see any needle dancing as it reacts much slower than an Ammeter because it's wired differently. Where the Ammeter is a pass through (in line) connection, the Voltmeter is not connected via pass through (in line). It is connected to - and + independently where the Ammeter is connected to + and+. Cheers! Zip~

[@kipblack7196]

Thanks again!

[@EricNeil-l8g]

I have a HB112 that was sitting for 10 years. I got it started but the regulator smokes. I cleaned the three points and polarized it per this great video but it still smokes. Also, the engine does not shut off when I turn off the ignition switch. Any ideas?

[@stanlarose2317]

I'm a dealer tech, currently working on a 1954 cadillac that won't charge after getting a new regulator and generator re build. Your tip to set the polarity on the regulator got it charging, I had no idea that was a thing, thank you.

[@ZippoVarga]

You're very welcome! Old technology, but it's like flashing a new computer to a modern vehicle to get the lines of communication going, only you're just pairing the charging system here. You have to excite the Regulator so that it knows it's time to do its job. I'm glad the video helped! Cheers! Zip~

[@guardinoinc.7490]

You work at a dealership and don’t know the basics…ahhh no surprise

[@stanlarose2317]

@@guardinoinc.7490 lmao humble yourself. They havnt taught this technology in school for decades. I doubt ill ever have the chance to work on something like this ever again. I guarantee theres a lot of stuff i fix that would make your head spin. Or who knows, maybe you are the one person in the world that knows everything.

[@guardinoinc.7490]

@@stanlarose2317 don’t be offended Stan .. there’s more money in working on newer technology/cars that there is on older. Just due to amount of newer vehicles out there. But in basic autoshop classes they do touch on the foundations of generators and charging systems

[@HenryMawcat]

tried it, it works, sorted the charging on my ironhead, clear simple instruction, many thanks

[@Roboticdoughbull3k]

Hey ZippoVarga , Every time I have to touch the battery and generator posts on the regulator, I pop the fuse in the tractor. Basically it's inline with the battery to regulator and charge indicator gauge.. Is the probably supposed to happen? And or I don't need that fused?

[@ZippoVarga]

Bypass the fuse temporarily with a jump wire. Then reinstall the fuse. Zip~

[@kibertkibert]

Great video. Very well done and good for novices like me.... and my 1950 Hudson. We both thank you.

[@ZippoVarga]

I hope it gets you and your Hudson all Charged Up!! Cheers! Zip~

[@jajaid6]

so it has to be polarized everytime you swap out a battery?thanks for your videos!

[@outspokengenius]

Thanks to this video I was able to get my 1969 MTD 860 charging again.

[@rohanboswell5408]

Contact breaker points , haven't herd those old familiar words in decades

[@ZippoVarga]

We're a dying breed, that's for sure. This old technology just works and is easy to maintain. Cheers Rohan! Thanks for stopping by! Zip~

[@ericclark8258]

Thankyou Zippo for your info and instilled confidence.

[@chrisrestifo7010]

Question regarding these regulators. I bought a spare one just to have on hand. They are both virtually identical. The old one has 3 resistors on the back. The spare has only 2. Are they interchangeable? Maybe a superseded part? Or is this just the wrong one? It's for a 1976 XLH Sportster.

[@ZippoVarga]

I would confirm compatibility with your local Harley Dealer's Parts department to make sure. Regulators can be picky as well as Stater's and Alternator's. Some don't play well together. Zip~

[@chrisrestifo7010]

@@ZippoVarga absolutely, I didn't want to install it and fry my wiring harness!!!!

[@ZippoVarga]

@@chrisrestifo7010 Exactly Chris. Which is why when in doubt, ask the professionals who are familiar with your Sportster and know what parts work and what ones will sizzle the whole system.

[@tstuart7333]

!!! 1st Ex wife on the phone.. how many do you have? Great video.

[@ZippoVarga]

lol, teenage X wife and my children's Mother. Still good friends with both fortunately. Thanks for the props! Zip~

[@watchrepairing]

A sign of a good full life, "That's my second ex wife." Love it! Thanks for the video.

[@ericrichards5862]

Just purchased a Ferguson TE20 tractor and the battery is hooked up neg ground when it's supposed to be pos. gnd. and it has battery charging issues, this has video helped me in troubleshooting. I'm going to check the field flashing videos also because it's been since the early 70's since I have done that. Thanks for the video.

[@JK-nw8hz]

Thanks very nicely explains If the marking on the wire connecting terminal like Bat field Arm is also explains The confusion of right wire on The right terminal doubt is clear.

[@michaelkatruska1248]

Question I have a allis chalmers Hd6g high lift I took the generator off and cleaned all the inside out (caked with mud) and put all back together the brushes are making contact with commutator, I then cleaned points on regulator, but when I put voltmeter on generator and got a negative reading from battery terminal on generator. Would polarizing the generator wrong make it draw instead of charging?

[@amg9856]

typically 14.5 vdc is good charge. once you start reaching 15vdc you are overcharging and over heating the battery.

[@ZippoVarga]

Correct Andrew. I typically shoot for a max of 14.2 to allow for +/- .3 volts, but from the factory, they're set to 14.4v. Thanks for stopping by and for the information! Cheers! Zip~

[@david9783]

Here I am 6 years after this posting and have learned about my 1971 Cub Cadet regulator. Thank you, and Merry Christmas from South Carolina!

[@ZippoVarga]

You're very welcome David! Merry Christmas! Zip~

[@michaelduggan4475]

got an old 7016 and running fine until recently. Won't start, no spark. Can't find problem. Figure it's neutral safety or magneto? Possibly something else?

[@garryludwick2990]

Pulled mine and checked out, TOAST. Wire burnt off center coil, full of corrosion, gotta get a new one. Will any 12v work. Delco Remy cant see any numbers, inside n out. Book shows # 122193. No luck sofar. This Big 10 is killing me. Wrong gov springs, bad ign coil, changing to electronic. Setting a new regulator an issue?

[@ZippoVarga]

These are the replacement regulators I've been using for years. www.amazon.com/Voltage-Regulator-Starter-Generator-1118981/dp/B07LC2HSWW

[@ridingwiththereids]

Replaced the alt on my 69 Chevy due to it not charging. Now it over charging. So I replaced the regulator, same problem. It goes from 12v-16.6, and everywhere between while running, and the alt gets HOT. I'm curious if I got a bad "new" alternator I think converting to a GM 1 wire alternator is in my trucks near future.

[@ZippoVarga]

With everything being made in China now days I'd lean towards a defective alternator. Whatever you purchase as a replacement, I always suggest getting a Lifetime Warranty. Zip~

[@davidk6271]

Video looks good , thanks - my battery has stopped charging so I will give this a go. Cheers

[@ZippoVarga]

Good luck with diagnosing your charging issue David. Zip~

[@johnvanover6285]

Like your work. I'm currently put one of these regulators on my Harley. Your were a big help thank you. Nice work

[@ZippoVarga]

You bet John! Good luck! Zip~

[@reyzapata9375]

Question: I have a 1950 Chrysler Imperial which I I have to polarize the voltage regulator because It has a generator. But, Do I have to do the same with my 70 Chevy Impala Voltage Regulator If it runs off a Alternator.?.

[@ZippoVarga]

My recommendation is to install everything, check for charge and if no charge, then polarize the regulator and check again. Zip~

[@reyzapata9375]

Ok, Thanks.👍🏽

[@rohanboswell5408]

I used limilar ones on the 1970ies ford Corrina/angler/escort/ and triumph so many old British car Austin Morris /Cambridge westminster.we used to bend them to adjust voltage flow

[@ZippoVarga]

Some are fixed and some have tuning screws to increase or decrease spring tension. The former are a bit trickier to get dialed in, but once there, they'll last and last. Thanks again for stopping by Rohan! Zip~

[@loudford8561]

thank you for your videos iam just getting into old tractors and your videos have been very helpful

[@ZippoVarga]

That's why I post them Abe. Glad they're coming in handy! Zip~

[@insidelookingout6480]

What did he ADJUST? He sanded the points.... There wasn't any indication of an adjustment... What if you don't have 12-14.4 volts? What if it's too high, like 16v. What if it's 10.2 v? What temp should the car be and what temp was it in the place he was working in? What was the idle speed set at to get that 12-14.4 volts. More unanswered question than info given in the video. It's the closest I can come to my search and it's not even an AMERCAN vehicle...

[@ZippoVarga]

Frustrated much Inside looking out? Ease up there a sec and listen. I (the "He" you referred to) will not give information out to the general public that must be done under controlled situations, that can result in personal injury or that can damage equipment. Which is WHY I didn't do any adjusting, explain idle speed function, at speed function, over or under voltage etc. I'm a responsible and conscientious individual who refuses to put potentially dangerous content in my videos. Lastly, These regulators are Delco Remy...aka USA MADE!! These particular regulators are for Farm Tractors and Garden Tractors (which translates to a lower amperage unit than is used in an automobile), which are also ALL Made in the USA. So, before you go off on the videographer because you're frustrated, you might think first about why I didn't include the information you so desperately need. Just a little FYI...you CAN Buy a NEW Regulator, properly set for cut in and cut out voltage at the right engine speed and mated to your alternator or Starter Generator at your local NAPA and save your self the aggravation all together. 9/10ths of these regulators just need the contacts cleaned in order to restore them to operating condition with no adjustments needed. If you've already messed with the adjustments, my suggestion is, go to a reputable electrical systems analyst and have them hook it up to their correct equipment to properly and safely set the regulators parameters to your specific needs. Otherwise, you risk more damage than is already evident. Zip~

[@rot_studios]

Couldn't find any info like you just gave anywhere! Hopefully this helps me get my Piaggio Vespacar P2 going again, it's also got a starter/generator and a very similar regulator :D Thanks for making this video!

[@WayneRiebe-cj5dz]

I hate to say bad thing. S, but guy kind of dragged it out way too long. It'll be easier just to have a simple answer. But anyhow, thanks.

[@gibbyrockerhunter]

It is 12 minutes long...there are hundreds if not thousands of videos, diagrams, and write ups. C-mon man

[@jajaid6]

does this have to be polarized everytime i swap out batterys?have a regulator that reads high and wondering if previous owner did not do this step.let me know please?thanks for your time.

[@markusbrandly9007]

First ex wife has to wait.... My kind of guy!!

[@MrDanoconnor]

Very Good Video. Got a simple question, are ALL 12 Volt Reguators Interchangable? One off a Briggs to one off a Techumse? etc. or is there a difference.??? If so , what is the Difference??

[@ZippoVarga]

There are differences MrDan. It's within the poles and how they deliver and bypass the charging circuits. It's also dependent on the alternator or generator that is in need of any given charging system. Your defense is identifying the alternator or generator type and its required regulator. This can be done in a number of ways, but the most direct and strait forward is identifying the alternator or generator being used via model numbers. Then, do an internet search for that alternator or generator along with regulator in the search and you will be directed to comparable regulators. I've got 3 different starter/generator types and each requires its own specifically configured regulator to work properly. I hope this helps and good luck! Cheers! Zip~

[@MrDanoconnor]

@@ZippoVarga Thank You, Glad I asked. I have a a MF 10 tractor with a 10 hp Tecumseh, Genny Starter on it and the Regulator is bad, I have one from a Cub Cadet with a Genny Starter and thought all the Genny Starter ones would be the same ? Maybe Not??

[@abr.magallon2134]

Hello, i have a 56 buick roadmaster. Car was sitting down for almost 20 years. Have a problem finally car is running but my battery keeps draining. If i drive my car runs fine but next day battery is dead. I clean my voltage regulator like you said, i follow all steps exactly like you said. I run my car and voltage regulator read on my multimeter 13.5 and battery above 12. Next day after work my battery was 10.55 and voltage regulator was 10.11 and my car start it but my battery numbers came down to 9.10 and voltage regulator went up to 11.20. I remove negative from my batter while was on and my car turn off. Should i buy a voltage regulator or my generator. Please need help. Thanks and great video especially how you explain step by step.

[@ZippoVarga]

The problem sounds more like what's called a parasitic draw. Google the problem, "draining battery" or "Parasitic Draw" and you'll find some very good articles and videos on how to check and trace this issue. Something else on the car is causing the battery to drain while not in use. It appears your generator/alternator and regulator are doing their job. Keep me posted on your progress Ab. Zip~

[@walt4908]

I do have a question, the car goes off? An old generator system should continue to run even with the battery removed if the generator is working. New cars since the 70's need the alternator in the "loop" but not a 56 Buick. The generator should be putting out at least 12. something volts to show it is working and able to over power the battery and charge it. Should be able to find KZbin ways to check generator and or regulator. But if you are getting voltage then you have a different problem.If electricity is going to ground somewhere you have a short. You sure there isn't a clock, or light or something on drawing down the battery. It is pretty big power loss if you see that kind of loss overnight. You sure the battery is OK. Did you do a hydrometer test? Start at the battery make sure all the cells show good, no dead cells. Then turn everything off including the key see if there is continuity across the two terminals of the battery. or even a spark when try to put them back on their terminals. You may need to remove the BATT wire from the battery or regulator to not have this energize the regulator. If you do get continuity or a spark you have to figure out what is doing it. With a full battery take one fuse out of the fuse box at a time. Look for continuity or that pesky spark. Take a picture first just in case you get lost. Keep looking for that light or clock or something taking the power out of the battery. If you run out of fuses you are really in trouble. Good luck

[@hkcitation]

On my old Suburban lawntractor I get 16 volts output from my starter/generator at idle. What should I check to get the voltage back down to 13-14 volts so it doesn't overcharge?

[@ZippoVarga]

Is that at the Regulator? If so, source a local automotive electrical repair shop to properly set it. Shouldn't cost you much, and although the battery can handle 16V, it really should be reset to 14.4V cut off. Cheers! Zip~

[@hkcitation]

16 volts at the battery terminals with the engine running after afew minutes run time, with the brand new aftermarket regulator the motor repair shop sold the previous owner of the tractor, along with the rebuilt starter/generator. I disconnected the F wire at the starter/generator and while running the battery was at 13.2 volts so it is the regulator. I put my old rusty Delco regulator back on it and it gives me 15.5 volts at the battery terminals so I'll run that one for now. I'll have to call the shop that rebuilt the starter/generator and see if they can set the regulator. Thanks

[@geoepi321975]

Hi Zippo, my regulator draws 4 ambers on switch on position is it normal

[@MrCountrycuz]

Sears Suburbans from the 1960's have these monkeys.

[@FelixFelixB]

found this video to late, I bought a new regulator but after taking off my old one the video explained exactly what I needed to do, im more of a visual learner I read only about cleaning the points but couldn't comprehend it due to this being all new to me , thanks, hopefully after following your steps I have a back up.

[@ZippoVarga]

+FelixFelixB I hope that it's just the points contacts as well! Although you found the video after the fact, you did find it. Thanks for stopping by! Cheers!! Zip~

[@paulg444]

unless you are running your tractor for more than a few hours per day you dont need a current limit circuit. When these tractors were used back in the 1960s and guys were driving them 5 hours per day you had to limit the battery charge. Today most users are using their tractor once per week or less. The last thing you have to worry about is over charging your battery. A simple bridge rectifier is all you need.

[@llamamanism]

That’s a really good ‘point’ hardly any vintage machine owner will use it like the first owner did when it was new Mine has 2 coils, one with a moving contact between 2 others that has just a few turns of copper wire in the coil and another with just 2 contacts and a fully wound coil. I wonder which one is the current limit circuit?

[@illusionscustoms]

I HAVE A QUESTION.. 62 buick LeSabre 2 door and 4 door 401 nailhead motor both vehicles..all original trying to keep both as close too original as i can making both daily drivers.. have a few? ( quite a few actually ) if you could contact me if you have the time .. love to have a conversation...

[@ZippoVarga]

My era of Buick William. My first car was a 1966 Buick Skylark Thin Pillar Coupe. Loved that car! You can find me on Facebook at Zippo Varga. Look forward to chatting. Cheers!! Zip~

[@rickj2913]

You videos have been an inspiration to many people . keep it up Bro .

[@matxavier5]

Thanks for this video. My old Honda CB550 wasn't charging and I still have the old charging system wired up. I followed the steps of sanding the terminals on the regulator but I didn't re-polarize the terminals and it started charging again. Before the lights used to dim and when I revved the rpms the light would get brighter. It does that again now and charges at around 14.2 vDC which is much better than before. It wouldn't hardly charge when at high rpm.

[@ZippoVarga]

The general operation of a Regulator is the same across the board for the most part. I'm glad you got the old CB550 charging again! Cheers! Zip~

[@ss-tk4wt]

looking through the comments and looking for something on a voltage regulator over charging, you don't have anything on it? plus someone in comments mentioned that you need to polarize it when you change batteries, is that correct? appreciate a cure. i have a regulator ordered and would rather not have had to buy it, thank you

[@ZippoVarga]

To be honest, your regulator either has a bad pole or it's way out of adjustment and needs to be calibrated. This should only be done by a qualified technician. If one isn't available to you, then I suggest replacing your faulty unit. I know it sucks, but trying to make any adjustments yourself can result in the battery blowing up on you due to excessive voltage. Sorry I don't have better news. Zip~

[@thetrainmaster1]

Once you've polarized it can it unpolarize itself over time? And or what can cause it to unpolarize?

[@ZippoVarga]

I have experienced this a few times. Often it happens when a unit has sat for an extended period of time. Zip~

[@Solamia7]

QUESTION: After all put back and started engine, I put multimeter on VR as you said. I got 13+ reading, and then the readings dropped real low (like below 8, and even a 1 something) and back up to 13s again. It kept repeating this. Is this normal or do I have another issue to address? Thank you so much for your help

[@ZippoVarga]

Perfectly Normal. This is the Regulator regulating voltage going to the battery. Zip~

[@Solamia7]

@@ZippoVarga Thanks SO much

[@vet137]

I am pretty smart..hands on...you are one smart cookie and I hope you continue teaching..your methods are very well explained, I had a great time sipping vodka and getting a lesson on regulators..yes at 60 I am still learning. THANK YOU

[@ZippoVarga]

Soil. I'm humbled by your comment and compliment to my style of helping to educate through the wonders of the Internet. I had great teachers and I like to think it's their style and form of educating that I've adopted. Thank you Soil! Cheers! Zip~

[@Syntheticoilprotection]

Great content thanks for the info☕😃

[@ZippoVarga]

No problem 👍

[@thecentralscrutinizer5105]

all I have to ask is.... _WTF is a Toober???_ , I don't wanna be a toober PS: LMFAO, _"My _*_FIRST_*_ ex-wife"_ so how many we got there??

[@ZippoVarga]

lol, just two. One when I was just 18 (too young to marry in my opinion) and #2....don't marry someone 6 years younger than you lol. Cheers Fone! Zip~

[@thecentralscrutinizer5105]

@@ZippoVarga Never tried it personally...... one failure I succeeded in avoiding... w00t!

[@simplyconnected]

This guy is WAY TOO ROUGH. Those ceramic resistors in the back are essential for operation. Do NOT touch them. That 'white stuff' he is sanding off is SILVER! Don't take it all off. The problem he had was a stuck contact but he broke one of the resistors before finding the stuck contact. There are three coils: Cutout coil, Voltage Coil and Current Coil. There are three screw terminals Armature, Field and Battery. The regulator works by turning the FIELD current on and off. Armature current outputs to the BATT terminal. Normally, regulators are nearly bulletproof with no solid state components so only three things can go wrong; contacts, coils or resistors.To protect the resistors, leave the regulator mounted in the vehicle and clean/adjust the contacts from there.

[@ZippoVarga]

Thank you for your respectful insight connected. I'm aware of the ceramic resistors sensitivity and the damaged ones I show were in that condition when I received the tractors that had them on them. I pulled bad regulators for the video and yes, I should have been more gentle with them. The information I gave was given to me from the horses mouth at Delco Remy where I worked for many years. Perhaps his information was a bit harsh and crude, but he was an old salt. I hope people will read through the comments and find yours. It's full of very valuable information to them and also to me! Thanks and Cheers! Zip~

[@vet137]

That 'white stuff' he is sanding off is SILVER! Don't take it all off. ? OK please indulge further.

[@rickj2913]

Can use contact cleaner of remove residue from ceramic coil after fingers have touched it so let Zippo do his video .

[@cocob9833]

Why is it called a starter generator when its a generator and not a starter I know its to keep it running but not started

[@ZippoVarga]

It's called a starter generator because that is exactly what I am talking about here. The same applies to the Delco Remy starter only types that are found in automobiles. The Starter Generators were used in the farming and industrial industry for numerous applications. Zip~

[@kinnaird100]

Thank you my bike wasn't charging your video was a great help followed your instructions problem cured.

[@ZippoVarga]

Great to hear!

[@Mcfreddo]

What I am looking for is an explanation upon how it works. One set of contacts break (cutoff) the connection for the field? the other two will regulate the voltage and one for the current. Which coil function starts off closed; for the field windings? On our old tractor, the regulator does not work the starter. The starter has it's own solenoid and will start directly with the key, from a charged battery. (Massey Ferguson, English made.) The regular just controls the generator and so I was interested in getting the regulator to function again. I've cleaned up the generator and found it in fine condition, just oil fumes had collected and so was mucky, but from that, it had no wear on the armature, nor on the brushes as they were seized from wearing along with the commutator. Did not realise about the shocking to polarise the coil's iron core permanently- so to speak, as the contact/ coil system don't do anything atm.

[@judyandhuggins]

Hey Zippo My 3415s acts different when starting always . Sometimes flywheel turns 1/2 turn seems to almost freeze then turns free to start ?? Next time turns over / starts fine . Next time flywheel turns a little the gen light goes out and came hear a loud circuit click by the regulator . Then wait for a minute gen light comes back and goes thru these stages ? Any info I would really appreciate !!! Thanks

[@ZippoVarga]

Weak wire connection.

[@judyandhuggins]

I'll check wiring !!! Thanks

[@Lloyd-mo]

i will try this on my old Harley.

[@dutch385]

My Shovelhead has basically the same reg,,, I know they can be adjusted,, mine could charge slightly more to get it to 14v,, not sure on how to do that,, any help?

[@ZippoVarga]

Moss Motors Ltd. here on KZbin had an excellent series on adjusting a VR Dale. Good Luck with your Shovel! Zip~

[@dutch385]

@@ZippoVarga Thanks man.. mines a 3 pole,, those are 2 but I'll take a look just the same

[@fairlanephantom]

Problem I have with my 12v system is that it's fine in park when the idle is higher, but in drive the voltage is borderline and the charge light comes on and runs like crap. It's never killed a battery and it'll always start the next day no problem. But let's say I take it for a ride, when I get it home the idle goes low and the charge light comes on. So I end up having to increase my idle just to make sure it doesn't give me trouble while in drive, but increasing your idle for that reason can lead to other issues. The contacts in my regulator were actually very clean. Does that sound like a polarizing issue or just a dirty/worn generator? I do take the battery out in the Winters. I know generators don't charge at low idle, but idle speed in drive in the handbook is 500 RPM and the light comes on even trying to set it at 650 RPM.

[@johnf6262]

My book gives the gap for top and bottom of both voltage and ampree coils from what I see here suppose to make contact no wonder mine does not charge, that and testing all these heavey windings could be challenging. One thing for sure if all three contacts are closed it should charge maximum.

[@josephharmon5925]

?4U - The resistor underneath I have a regulator that has a broken one, is it possible i could replace/solder or otherwise repair it, if so with what? (by that I mean could I get a axial-lead resistor to replace it, if so at what OHM). If not, are there any other ways/type replacements I could buy.

[@Mcfreddo]

Battery to the field coil you mean?

[@DerricksFunnyFarm]

Thank you, sir !

[@dutch385]

ZippoVarga,, This application is for my 67' Harley but has the same Reg,,, I just replaced the Generator w/ a new one as well as a new Regulator.... I was have low charging issues before,, now however I'm charging at over 15!,,, I'm scared I'm going to fry my Batt... I have flashed the Batt to the Arm but still charging high,,, my Regulator is a newer style & doesn't have the adjustments like this old one in in the video does... do you recommend bending the tab that has the spring tension to the batt terminal/coil ? - or any other advise?

[@ZippoVarga]

Very good question Dale with a pretty strait forward answer. First of....Awesome Bike! (Although I haven't seen it, I love the older Harley's.) Now...to be on the safe side, I would find a reputable automotive electrician to make the needed adjustments. But....you can attempt to tweak the springs to better regulate the max voltage. Optimum is 14.4V, so you're not TOOOOO high at 15V and I don't see you boiling out the battery unless the regulator isn't engaging the shunt to bypass charging once the battery is at full voltage. That would definitely be a bad thing. I would fully charge the battery, then start the bike and make certain that the regulator is indeed bypassing. Also, I can only assume this is the charging voltage at idle.....check voltage with some RPM's on the engine. Adding an AMP meter would also benefit you in the long run. It would allow you to visually check your charge/discharge at any given time. Smith Warner would be a period correct gauge to install and bonus....you can see, at a glance, when the regulator is charging and when it isn't simply by the needle position. Like on my old garden tractors, I don't run them often, so when I do start them up, I watch the Amp meter and will let the engines run until the Amp meter drops off to the nominal battery voltage. This is how you can determine if your charging system (a.k.a. Regulator) is functioning as it should. You can also use your voltage tester in the AMP function to determine if the regulator is bypassing as it should once the battery is charged or by simply putting the volt meter on volts and connecting it to the battery and watching for the voltage to drop off from the 15 or so volts. Honestly, I wouldn't stress the 15V threshold too much so long as the regulator is cutting off as it should. Like I said earlier....14.4V is the standard charge rate and you're only .6 volts over that. Now....if you told me you were charging in excess of 20 volts, then yes...I'd throw up a red flag. I hope this helps! Please keep us posted on your findings. Cheers! Zip~

[@idontknow2293]

Hey I remember my old man tapping the regulator with a rock when the car wouldn't start. He got it started every time. I guess he had to cause he didn't have money to actually buy parts for the car. 😒

[@mickeyclark5315]

He wouldn't have tapped the regulator - it would have been the starter solenoid.

[@idontknow2293]

@@mickeyclark5315 it was always a Chevy. Starter solenoids are not on top. They're on the starter underneath.

[@tommywolffordw8182]

Good,like,this,one,think,like

[@frankdavidson9675]

the good part of voltage regulaters is you can toss them in the trash can and go with alternator i wire easy hook up i did this to my m37 it gives 28 volts dc for my 24 volt system

[@dwightmanuel1609]

Are you looking for a growler to buy

[@honey8784]

Thank you it helped me..

[@ZippoVarga]

Thank you for editing your initial comment Ken. To haste is to fall short. In other words....Yes, I could have spent less time explaining the intricacies, but that would leave you or someone else without that crucial piece of information. Cheers! Zip~

[@EVILDR235]

VERY HELPFUL VIDEO.

[@ZippoVarga]

I'm glad you found it helpful Chuck! Zip~

[@92foxbodygrandtouring6]

What if my idiotic self didn't mark the wires? I have one of these reg in my 91 foxbody with 5 connections sbs on the bottom and two on the top

[@4dirt2racer0]

some "abrasive" paper? iv never heard it called that

[@ZippoVarga]

When you get into the finer grits, it's refereed to as either abrasive or emery paper. In this case, I'm using 800-1000 grit. Pumice stone used to be used back in the day. Cheers! Zip~

[@davidhenderson3400]

This is for the 3 coil type. You should make a video about the 2 coil type and the single coil type.

[@charlesmeyer8717]

It is my understanding that you can only polarize a magnet. The magnet is in the generator. Therefore I believe what you are polarizing is the magnet in the generator and not anything in the regulator.

[@ZippoVarga]

Hi Charles. You bring up a good point. The poles in the regulator are actually Electro Magnets and they're energized by the Generator. In order to regulate the charge/discharge, the poles open and close under two loads. Magnetic resistance and spring tension that's preset at the factory to approximately 14.4 volts DC, where as, when the battery is fully charged, the regulator closes the charge loop through one magnetically charged pole, preventing overcharging of the battery and other components. Cheers! Zip~

[@ZippoVarga]

I should also add, there are no magnets in the Starter/Generator. All the fields are electrically generated through the frame mounted windings and the Armature via the brushes and commutator. Zip~

[@XPFTP]

i could of swear it was poling the gen starter not the regulator.. the regualtor never needs this done .. never once heard of this ever.. its for the gen/starter but hey who am

[@dannygagne3241]

By the way ,thanks for the great expanitory video on voltage regulator troubleshooting.

[@heliarche]

Hi Zip, wouldn't you know it but the regulator on my Scout is starting to go wacky on me. It seems to me though that there isn't a lot to go wrong on these but the contact points unless you really wire something wrong and fry it. I opened it up and ran some sandpaper through the points but it's still hit or miss. I have another that will hopefully fit but I'm thinking I'll take my present one off and bring it inside where I can work with it better.

[@ZippoVarga]

I hope it's nothing major and the regulator starts behaving my Friend! Keep me posted. Zip~

[@heliarche]

ZippoVarga I brought it in on the table and really cleaned the points up nicely. I put it back in and it was charging but the amp meter still wasn't making me happy. NAPA had an Echlin in stock. Little pricey but the Scout doesn't ask for much so I went for it, plus it was plug and play. It seems to jump around a lot sometimes though. Is that the nature of the beast?

[@ZippoVarga]

heliarche It absolutely is the nature of the beast my Friend. The Ammeter jumping is a good sign that your battery is fully charged and the regulator is doing its job properly by bypassing the charge and dissipating the constant voltage being delivered by the alternator. The contacts within the regulator open and close very quickly once a battery is topped off, which results in a jumping of the ammeter. If you turn the wipers, heater and headlights on with the engine idling, you should notice the ammeter leveling out to a happy place. Turn everything back off and once the battery recovers, the bouncing resumes.

[@heliarche]

ZippoVarga Thanks man! I don't have a lot of time with a points type regulator. I kind of thought that behavior was normal but it still looks crazy seeing it happen the first time! My old regulator works to a point and I'll keep it for backup but sometimes it sticks on full charge and sometimes it won't charge at all. If I'm in a pinch it will do the job. I know the contacts are nice and clean. I think it has more to do with someone beating the snot out of it over the years. Probably something out of whack now.

[@jamesjenkins3384]

Polarizing my regulator causes my amp light to come on with the ignition off?? Am getting no charge. This is a brand new regulator.

[@ZippoVarga]

I don't know what vehicle you're speaking of so it's hard for me to offer any assistance James. Zip~

[@asiasmaster]

Same happened to my 67 firebird gen light stays on after turning car off

[@asiasmaster]

Brand new regulator

[@georgensonraffaut3726]

Great video guys cheers

[@tbone3583]

Smoking that hopium

[@bowlweevil4161]

never saw you adjust anything and you polarize the generator not the regulator

[@ZippoVarga]

Adjusting the regulators is something that most should leave to the pro's. That's why I didn't show an adjustment. As for polarizing, you're "mating" both the regulator and Starter Generator, so you're half correct. It's like adding a new WiFi device to your network. Gotta pair them. Zip~

[@tippitoad9056]

why are you saying starter generator?

[@ZippoVarga]

Because that is what these particular Regulators are used on, but in general, generators and older alternators also used these types of regulators. On vintage Garden Tractors that I typically work on, the Generators also do the starting. So they're referred to as Starter-Generators. Zip~

[@johnshippen]

Thanks so much,, Was very helpful. Johnny