Generator/regulator questions.
09-04-2016, 11:12 AM
#1
Melting Slicks
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Location: Middletown Ohio
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2016 C1 of Year Finalist
Generator/regulator questions.
While playing around with my 57 Gasser I noticed that on my electronic dashboard the battery at idle is showing 12.2 volts.
After a minute or 2 I raised the rpm to 1500 then back to idle and the voltage read 13.5 volts and then went down to 13.1 volts.
Is this a indication of fluctuations or malfunction in the regulator.
I am using a stock 57 generator.
If so is there anything I can do to correct the problem other then replacing the regulator?
Thanks,
Bruce B
After a minute or 2 I raised the rpm to 1500 then back to idle and the voltage read 13.5 volts and then went down to 13.1 volts.
Is this a indication of fluctuations or malfunction in the regulator.
I am using a stock 57 generator.
If so is there anything I can do to correct the problem other then replacing the regulator?
Thanks,
Bruce B
Last edited by ohiovet; 09-04-2016 at 11:12 AM.
09-04-2016, 11:45 AM
#2
Le Mans Master
12.2 is low battery voltage even when not running. I would charge the battery and try again. If you have one of the older Delco regulators you can try to adjust the charging voltage to closer to 14 v above 1500 rpm as outlined in the passenger car shop manual. 
09-04-2016, 11:49 AM
#3
Race Director
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Location: Fresno California
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Pilot Dan is right....12.6 is pretty much minimum...Higher than 12.6 is a fully charged battery. With a discharged (low) battery, or a marginal battery, the charging system will try to charge it, even at just-above-idle speeds. I'd charge/check the battery and check again. Good luck with it!