how do i test rectifier, diode , regulator on alternator.

[Tintin]

Hiw do i test my alternator rectifier, diode , regulator?

I'm not an electronics wizz so simple terms please.

I can use a multimeter.

I dont want to keep starting engine as it will drain my rapidly diminishing starter battery.

 

[Searush]

I take mine off & got to an auto-electrician, they can check it in seconds & can do the repair - often while you wait. And you only pay car prices, not marine ones. Test will probably cost about 20 quid tho & repair another 30 ish.

 

[vyv_cox]

There's a book on free download called 'The 12 V doctor's alternator book' by Edgar Beyn. If you can't find it PM me your e-mail address and I'll send it.

 

[Tintin]

Thats the obvious solution searush, but im on the boat holed up away from home harbour and car, its a sunday, and if i can find the problem today i may just be able to find a way to bodge fix it so i have enough juice in my batteries for a solo run home tomorrow with my beloved autopilot doing the hard work.

So, does anyone know how to test these? What resistances should i look for with the rectifier? Etc...

 

[VicS]

Thats the obvious solution searush, but im on the boat holed up away from home harbour and car, its a sunday, and if i can find the problem today i may just be able to find a way to bodge fix it so i have enough juice in my batteries for a solo run home tomorrow with my beloved autopilot doing the hard work.

So, does anyone know how to test these? What resistances should i look for with the rectifier? Etc...

You have two threads running on the same topic.
I have just posted details of how to test the rectifier on the other thread
http://www.ybw.com/forums/showthread.php?p=2995133#post2995133

 

[VicS]

There's a book on free download called 'The 12 V doctor's alternator book' by Edgar Beyn. If you can't find it PM me your e-mail address and I'll send it.

It can be found HERE

 

[vyv_cox]

It can be found HERE

I have that link too, but can't get it to work. I tried it several times yesterday and once today. After entering the code nothing happens. Anyone else finding the same?

 

[elton]

Link works for me. Take care over 0/O.

 

[savageseadog]

I've repaired a handful of alternators for myself when I needed to. I can tell you that it's impossible to test the diodes without removing the diode array, you need a large soldering iron (usually). Most common issues are bad wiring./connections to and from alternator and battery (remember the negative connection to engine (usually), battery defects are common too. You can remove the regulator as a desperate gambit but you have to ensure that you don't overcharge your battery.

 

[VicS]

Yep works for me too.

But wiggling the wires will probably sort it out

 

[Tintin]

Thanks Vyv and VicS. I posted a new thread for testing as it was thread drift on the other.

Getting serious about testing has tempirarily fixed the problem - see other thread for full tale.

Thanks again all.