Hi Guys, I've just replaced my old mechanical regulator with a solid state regulator. It has 3 wires, two to the genny and one to the batt. What I need to know is what is the correct method of polarizing the genny using this setup. With the old mechanical type I was told to bridge the "gen" and "Bat" terminals momentarily. Can I just jumper the positive battery terminal and the armature post on the genny ? Just want to make sure as the new regulator cost me an arm and a leg and I don't want to wreck it.

Whilst on the subject I also have a genny that is not putting out any current. Does anyone know how to test the armature and individual parts when stripped.
Thanks in advance,
Paschal.

 

Here's how to polarize a generator:

With the generator on the bike and connected to the regulator: Make a jumper wire and connect one end to the generator "Armature" terminal (terminal marked "A" on the generator). Momentarily (for maybe one second) touch the other end to the positive terminal of the battery.

If the genny isn't putting out, buy it a new diamond ring. Usually works for me!

You can visually inspect the commutator, visually inspect the brush holders, measure the brush length, and use an ohm meter to check the continuity of the field coils. Testing the armature for shorts and opens requires a "growler".

Usual culprits on an HD generator are brushes being too short; commutator worn, grooved, too high mica between segments; armature shorted or opened, or solder slung out of commutator where armature leads connect. Field coils seldom fail, unless the field has been grounded for too long.

 

Thanks Pococj, I owe you a beer.