Generator probs?

hairpin151 · Post by **hairpin151** » Fri Aug 01, 2008 5:32 pm

I think I might need a new generator as my gauge shows the low side of the yellow and its cranking slower and slower.Any ideas or where can I get a new generator without breaking the bank?Thanks.

uglyranger · Post by **uglyranger** » Fri Aug 01, 2008 5:38 pm

Have you checked your batteries? Do you still have a 24V system?

hairpin151 · Post by **hairpin151** » Fri Aug 01, 2008 8:55 pm

Still 24volt as stock,just cranking slower and in the yellow.

Lifer · Post by **Lifer** » Fri Aug 01, 2008 9:02 pm

It could be that your generator output isn't up to snuff, or your voltage regulator could be limiting the output. Any decent automotive electrical shop can test, clean, and/or rebuild your generator for way less than a replacement would cost you. I'd get that checked out first. If it solves the problem, the regulator is probably okay.

pfrederi · Post by **pfrederi** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 5:27 am

hairpin151 wrote:I think I might need a new generator as my gauge shows the low side of the yellow and its cranking slower and slower.Any ideas or where can I get a new generator without breaking the bank?Thanks.

Before you run out to buy a new generator....

Is it in the yellow while it is running? Is it in a different location when the engine is not running and switch is on? How much does the needle drop while it is cranking....

Don't use the approach of some old Army Mechanics "Repair by Replacement"

When i first took over as CO I think my motor pool followed the following diagnostic...Truck won't start?? ...replace batteries, still won't start replace starter motor, then plugs, then wires etc....turn in to support....

hairpin151 · Post by **hairpin151** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 7:16 am

The gauge shows on the low side of yellow while running also there when the engine is off and the switch is on.As I had said earlier its cranking slower as well.

VROD02 · Post by **VROD02** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 8:30 am

Check it with a volt meter.

topellis · Post by **topellis** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 8:35 am

I recently went through the same thing. It was my generator. I got a used one that is the same for the M35 that is an alternator verses a generator with an external regulator. There is a thread on this forum concerning it. I got a used generator from a place in florida for about 130 shipped. That one part has 60 amp capacity verses the original 25 amp capacity, if you do determine that you have to replace it you may want to go this way as an alternative that is still mil issue parts and waterproof like the original.

Mark

pfrederi · Post by **pfrederi** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 8:40 am

If the volt meter isn't moving running vs. off then you are probably not charging your batteries (and they are running down ...sl;ow cranking). You could also verify this by using your multimeter and reading voltage running and off.

Para 92 TM 9-8030 has detailed diagnostics for charging system and will allow you to see if it the generator or regulator that is failing...(Make sure you check all the connections first)....You do not need the low voltage test set they call for a regular multimeter can handle most of the work. The adapter set for water proof ignition systems however makes the process a lot easier.

hairpin151 · Post by **hairpin151** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 10:40 am

How do you check the gen. and the voltage reg. while its running?

pfrederi · Post by **pfrederi** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 1:29 pm

You should get slightly over 24 volts off and about 28.5 running (you can use you multimeter right at the batteries).

Do you have a mechanical or solid state regulator? You can open a mechanical one and check the contacts to see if they are burned/stuck. If it is solid state the are not repairable

Voltage regulators are more prone to total failure than generators which usually they die slowly and/or get very noisy.

hairpin151 · Post by **hairpin151** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 1:56 pm

I have a mechanical reg. and when I start the truck the gauge goes way into the red then once its running the low side of yellow.I will check it at the batteries as you said and also take a look at the inside of the reg.I appreciate the help no doubt.

Thanks,James

uglyranger · Post by **uglyranger** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 3:43 pm

Lifer · Post by **Lifer** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 6:23 pm

That should help a lot!

hairpin151 · Post by **hairpin151** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 8:35 pm

Where did that diagram come from?

Generator probs?

Generator probs?

Re: Generator probs?