flow from the anode through the gate
or "PUT" to allow the DC to go to the
battery and therefore charge the battery.
What all of this means in simple English:
AC comes into the regulator, and DC
comes out when needed!
To test a rectifier/regulator, the old
method was to have a known good 10-,
15-, 25-, 30-amp rectifier/regulator to
hook up to your alternator. This was done
after you tested the stator for proper AC
readings*. Today, there are testers that you
can use that will test a rectifier/regulator
off the unit. This is a great asset and
necessary tool for all technicians today.
This tester eliminates the need to have
multiple known good rectifiers/regulators
on hand.
* When testing the alternators, please note
that AC voltage needed may vary or be lower,
depending upon the rpm the engine is running
at. So again, check the output readings and
make sure the engine is at the correct speed.
I know we have spent some time
talking basic theory and/or simple test
methods, but here again, we need to
understand the basics and then have
the proper test equipment and tools to
make your job easier. There are many
great testers on the market, but I cannot
tell you which one is the best. I suggest
that you find the testers that you feel
are the most comfortable and easiest to
use. The other item you will need is the
schematics of the equipment you are
working on and the proper test values.
The last piece of advice I can offer is to
break down the system and test the pieces
necessary; do not remove and replace an
item because you "think" it may be that
item. If you are checking for an ignition
problem, use the right tester and isolate
the engine from the equipment. If you
are testing the charging system, isolate
the alternator output and then test the
rectifier/regulator. If it is a clutch or
switch, isolate the item and test it based
on the manufacturer's guidelines. By
taking your time and looking at the issue
in small segments, you will save time and
ensure your time spent is productive and
profitable.
OPE
Dave Worden
has 40 years
of extensive
experience in
the outdoor
power equipment
industry at the
dealer, distributor
and manufacturer
levels. After
beginning his
career as a service technician for a dealership, he
made the jump to a Central Distributor.There,
he continued to work in the service department
before he was promoted to educational director,
representing Briggs & Stratton, Kohler,
MTD and Tecumseh. He then moved up to
the manufacturer level, serving as a territory
manager for McCulloch Corp., a training
specialist for Kohler Co. Engine Division, and
a general manager for a manufacturer-owned
dealership. In addition to being a contributing
writer for OPE magazine,Worden is currently
a program director for SkillsUSA.
OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT
MAY 2013
23
