MTFCA Forum

I don’t think my generator is putting out, my ammeter barely moves when the car is running. Is there a way to check it without removing it? I installed a new cutout, and now it won’t charge. Do I have to flash it?

So it worked before you installed the new cutout?

Yes, I was working on the cooling system and my magnetic work light stuck on top of the cutout and closed the contacts. I was hoping it just fried the cutout, I guess I was wrong. Is there a way to check the generator in the car?

Did you install a new cut out or a voltage regulator? If you have a regulator the generator will not charge the battery unless the battery really needs it. A cut out will charge the battery regardless if the battery needs it or not.

Stephen

Can assume the cut-out is a diode version then flashing isn't applicable. "Ammeter barely moves" when you turn the lights (incandescent) on?

Chuck, just try this:
Take out the new cutout and connect a test light between the generator output and the frame. Start the engine, if your generator is ok the light will light up, if no light you can try to flash it, still no light your generator need a overhaul and maybe have fried a few things inside.
Two photos following.
The one on my test stand has the test light connected directly to the generator. On the photo with the generator on the engine ready to testrun the connection of the testlight is between the cutout output and the frame because all was tested before and running well.

Good luck
Andre
Belgium