MTFCA Forum

I’ve heard that a Voltage Regulator (cutout look alike) is smarter than the original generator cutouts. How is the generator third brush adjusted when a VR is used…or does it even matter?

I don't think it matters as much.

NOTE CORRECTIONS:

I would adjust the third brush to limit generator output to *****6 to 10 amps ***** OR LESS with the engine running at 1300 RPM or so and the lights ****OFF*** and the battery *****FULLY-CHARGED.**** If you have a working cutout, it would be best to put the cutout on first and do your adjustment, then replace the cutout with the regulator, after making sure that it actually is a regulator, and that it is designed to limit generator output to ten amps or (preferabley) less.

***The Model T generator is capable of higher charging rates, but allowing it to operate at higher output for extended periods will greatly shorten its service life.***

A couple of things. Do you have a known voltage regulator? If you’re unsure Take a picture of the “VR” UPSIDE DOWN & post it here before you start tinkering with it.
Don’t try to flash your generator if you think you have a VR connected to it, it won’t be a good thing for the VR. Pat has a decent idea of using a cutout to set the generator amperage if it’s a working cutout. If you get that done disconnect the battery and then install the VR completely. Now you can connect your battery again.

The Fun Projects Voltage regulator con be identified by the two screws & bent arrow tab (see above screw & right of the VR) on the underside. There are many different cut out configurations. --
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This is the Fun Projects cut-out. Only 1 screw and the arrow tab is not bent in

I don’t have the VR yet so I don’t know what the bottom looks like. It should arrive from amazon in the next week. It says R6363 Voltage Regulator - 6 Volt Fits Ford.

A true voltage regulator is a rare commodity today.
I am pretty sure thats not whats coming. It looks like a cheap manual cutout. $54.
You are better off with a diode cutout than the cheap manual replacement cutouts available.

Here is an available replacement unit. Not correct in appearance, but more reliable than a manual repop.
Ebay #384413305329

Do some searches here for past, in depth discussions on the subject.

Adjusting the third brush is still necessary with a VR. Here are the instructions

Regardless of what it is called, you have purchased a simple cut-out. It's not actually a voltage regulator per-se, and it is unfortunate that the company decided to market it as something that it is not...likely out of pure ignorance rather than malice.

Your generator will live its longest and best life if it is regulated down to about 4A maximum.

Thank you! I guess I’ve been duped! They should not be allowed to advertise “voltage regulator” if it is a cutout. I will buy the ebay version and also set my third brush. Thanks again!

kgibbo wrote: ↑

Tue Mar 28, 2023 10:20 am

Thank you! I guess I’ve been duped! They should not be allowed to advertise “voltage regulator” if it is a cutout. I will buy the ebay version and also set my third brush. Thanks again!

Don't give up yet. It may be for a Model A or Tractor. If so still usable but needs to be hooked up differently.
If it is only a cut-out you may be able to get your money back because it wasn't as described. Not sure what process AMAZON has or how yo paid.
I assume this is where you got it https://www.amazon.com/R6363-Voltage-Re ... B091SNW35C --
Post a picture of it anyway and some of the instructions when you get it so we can confirm.

Please Note: Some Listings Use Stock Images for Reference and May Differ from the Actual Product.
This Aftermarket Part Is Made to Meet or Exceed Manufacturer (OEM) Specifications.
Hassle-Free Returns Offered on Most Items
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But it does look like you've been duped.

Another note concerning the instructions for the regulator: "High speed" for a Model T engine is about 1300 RPM, or about the speed the engine runs when the car is going about 30 MPH in high.

I skipped AMAZON and went to Reliable Aftermarket Parts site directly https://www.reliableaftermarketparts.co ... 0regulator
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The do show your item as a cut-out --
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and interestingly show a VR for a 3 brush generator likely positive ground (case may require + ground)

Looks like there is some confusion in the descriptions. Any non-electronic, OE type regulator will have more than 2 terminals. Any non-electronic device with only 2 terminals is almost certain to be a simple cut out.

An old style electromechanical regulator would require at least 3 terminals, usually labeled "ARM" (or "GEN") and one marked "FLD", and one marked "BATT".

Wow - I went back and click on the image with the multiple items and got a different page saying its a cut-out - and explains the differences. hen ADDITIONAL INFO says Voltage regulator --
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They do have a refund policy https://www.reliableaftermarketparts.co ... und-policy

In reply to your original question.
Yes it makes a difference.
The FunProjects VR is intended to be adjusted at installation using the instructions that came with the VR.
Ron Patterson

Curious that one VR can work for 6, 12, and 24 volt systems? I’m no electrical engineer but that just doesn’t sound right to me.

True Voltage regulators cannot work across multiple voltage platforms. They regulate for the singular voltage system for which they were designed.

As John states, the eBay item is an electronic cut-out...an entirely different thing...it is not a Voltage Regulator and isn't being marketed as a Voltage Regulator.

kgibbo wrote: ↑

Wed Mar 29, 2023 12:25 pm

Curious that one VR can work for 6, 12, and 24 volt systems? I’m no electrical engineer but that just doesn’t sound right to me.

Because ITS NOT A VOLTAGE REGULATOR. Its an electronic cutout. Can be built with one diode.
I have made my own. One selects a diode that covers the voltage /amp output maximum output from the generator.
Like 40V, 50 amps. The battery regulates the voltage it will except. A 6V battery will saturate around 8V. If you were to disconnect the battery, the generator would produce an uncontrolled voltage to 35 or so volts before it burns up.