'57 Voltage regulator testing

[Rex P Kelly]

I recently purchased a correct 001 voltage regulator for my '57. It looks good but I am not sure of is working condition. Can anyone please tell me of the correct testing procedures for it?......thanks

[Jack H.]

Re: '57 Voltage regulator testing

Two ways to go:

(1) Install. Put voltmeter across battery, ignition off; you ought to see 12.6 VDC or so. Start and rev the engine up to 1000 RPM, voltmeter ought to climb to 14-15 volt range indicating V-reg is sensing the need to charge and instructing generator to put out.

(2) Take the V-reg to an alt/gen repair shop in your area. They have a test/exercise machine where they can spin up a known good generator with your V-reg in circuit and verify it's cut-in/cut-out characteristics precisely (and tweak if necessary).

[Jack H.]

Re: '57 Voltage regulator testing

Two ways to go:

(1) Install. Put voltmeter across battery, ignition off; you ought to see 12.6 VDC or so. Start and rev the engine up to 1000 RPM, voltmeter ought to climb to 14-15 volt range indicating V-reg is sensing the need to charge and instructing generator to put out.

(2) Take the V-reg to an alt/gen repair shop in your area. They have a test/exercise machine where they can spin up a known good generator with your V-reg in circuit and verify it's cut-in/cut-out characteristics precisely (and tweak if necessary).