Classic/Antique Car Repair/1951 chevy pu

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Expert: - 11/19/2009


Question
I have a 1951 chevy stock pu. Amp meter is discharging. when I increase the rpm's the meter moves up to the midrange or "0".
Will not show charging to the + side.
I have changed the generator, regulator and battery. They all should be in good working order but the problem still exist.
I have checked the wiring as best I can. I also polarize the new regulator exactly per the instructions that came with the new regulator. still got the issue. I believe the gauge is ok. Got any ideas what I should do next. I also have check the belt to make sure its tight.

thk
coy

Answer
Time to get a voltmeter across the battery. With the engine running at about 1500 RPM the voltmeter should read around 7.3 volts with all the accessories off. Then repeat with the lights on and the reading should be close. If the readings are lower then the generator is not putting out correct voltage or there is a lot of resistance in the system. If the readings are correct then you are right the gauge is wacky.
Brad

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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