What are the methods for checking a voltage regulator?
1 Answers
Methods for checking a voltage regulator: 1. Bypass the regulator method (Direct excitation method check): Disconnect the regulator end of the wiring between the generator field and the regulator, and ground this end directly. Then start the engine and gradually increase the speed. If the charging indicator light remains on and the ammeter shows no reading when the engine is running at medium speed, it indicates that the generator is not generating electricity, and the fault lies with the generator itself. If it can generate electricity, the fault is with the regulator. 2. Voltage test method: Set the multimeter knob to the DC voltage 50V range, and measure the voltage at the generator's armature terminal. Connect the positive lead of the multimeter to the generator's armature terminal and the negative lead to ground. Run the engine slightly above medium speed. The multimeter needle should rise with the increase in engine speed, indicating a corresponding increase in voltage. If the multimeter shows a voltage close to the vehicle's battery voltage and the needle does not move, it means the generator is not generating electricity, and the fault is not with the regulator.