Charging Batteries

[Paul J]

Re previous topic on the charging system.

 

Went out and got a volt meter and tested the batteries with engine running and there was no increase in the 12. 8 volts i got when engine was off.

 

I think this is the Rectifier on my engine but i am unsure of how to check the output so i can isolate it as the problem

 

 

Paul J

 

I am now getting in the habit of using one battery at a time instead of running on both all the time

 

[Paul D]

Paul,

 

Could be the rectifier but could be the alternator itself. Not au-fait with marine engine dynamo/alternators though but if you can see the input side of the rectifier you could try measuring the ac voltage ( although might be tricky as I would guess the voltmeter is expecting 50 HZ ), however any increase in voltage this side of the rectifier will show the alternator is working at least.

 

Would be more than happy to pop down and have a look if you like.

 

 

 

 

[Paul D]

Here is some details re: rectifier that you will find useful....

[Paul J]

Cheers

 

Paul

[Coddy]

Paul,

 

Could be the rectifier but could be the alternator itself. Not au-fait with marine engine dynamo/alternators though but if you can see the input side of the rectifier you could try measuring the ac voltage ( although might be tricky as I would guess the voltmeter is expecting 50 HZ ), however any increase in voltage this side of the rectifier will show the alternator is working at least.

 

Would be more than happy to pop down and have a look if you like.

Paul

 

The point of a rectifier is to smooth the AC cycle to DC

 

It is not uncommon for the rectifier to blow if the battery leads become detached from the battery terminals to take extreme care.

 

I would suggest that you obtain a workshop manual for your engine, there are often ones available on E-Bay or take it to a marine electrician.

 

Sorry I can not help more, I do have a digital volt/amp meter if you want to borrow it.

 

Coddy