ALTERNATOR/REGULATOR
SERVICE
DESCRIPTION
The alternator serves to keep the battery constantly charged.
It
is
driven from the pulley at the end
of
the crankshaft by a
Y·belt. The type
of
"alternator used is ideal for high speed
engines having a wide range
of
engine speeds.
It
contains
diodes that convert
AC
to
DC,
and an IC regulator that keeps
the generated voltage constant even when the engine speed
changes.
A
CAUTION:
Do
not
use
any
high-voltage
tester
such
as
a
megger.
Otherwise~
damage
to
diodes
will
result
..
During
high-speed
running
of
the
engine,
do
not
discon-
nect
the
positive
or
negative
terminal
of
the
battery
from
terminal
B
of
the
alternator.
"this
is
done,
diode
failure
will
result.
Wdh
altemators
having
Ie
regulators
J
absolutely
avoid
a
short
circuit
between
terminals
Band
L.
This
would
allow
cu"ent
to
flow in
the
I>'diode
trio"
and
damage
it.
Do
not
start
the
engine
with
the
lead
disconnected
from
tenninalB of
the
alternator.
Otherwise,
damage
to
the
voltage
regulator
will
result.
When
charging
the
battery with a
quick
charger,
be
sure
to
disconnect
the
battery
tenninals
to
prevent
damage
to
diodes.
NOTE:
The alternator connections and color coding described
on the following illustrations
may
vary from earlier WEST-
ERBEKE engines. Always refer to the wiring diagrams
in
this manual and also make a quick sketch
of
your alternator
wiring before disconnecting for service.
ALTERNATOR
TROUBLESHOOTING
If you suspect that the alternator is not producing enough
voltage to charge the engine's battery, check the
following:
o Make certain your alternator is securely mounted.
o Check the drive belts for proper tension.
o Inspect for loose or disconnected wires at the alternator
A
WARNING:
A
tailed
alternator
can
become
very
bot.
Do
not
touch
until
the
alternator
has
cooled
down.
Testing
The
Charging
Voltage
SHAFT
If you suspect the alternator has failed, perfonn the following
tests.
STATOR
1.
Using a voltmeter, connect the voltmeter red wire clip
to
the output terminal
B.
2. Connect the other voltmeter wire
to
any ground on the
engine.
3.
Start the engine and record the voltmeter's readings.
A
CAUTION:
To
avoid
damage
to
the
battery
charg-
ing
circuit,
never
shut
off
the
engine
battery
SWitch
when
the
engine
is
running!
Engines & Generators
60
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