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koates · 08-22-2020, 01:43 AM

Maybe the power wire to the alternator does not go through your ammeter but direct to the battery side of the starter solenoid so does not show on the meter even though the alternator is charging. Check with a test light that there is actually battery power at the alternator with the engine not running. As stated all testing should be done with a voltmeter. A 6 volt alternator should read 7.5 volts at the alternator with the engine revs up, and like wise a 12 volt alt should have about 14 volts. These one wire alternators need some revs up to start them charging and may not charge at idle speed. Regards, Kevin.

08-22-2020, 01:43 AM	#33
koates Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Melbourne Australia. Posts: 2,219	Re: Generator or alternator ? Maybe the power wire to the alternator does not go through your ammeter but direct to the battery side of the starter solenoid so does not show on the meter even though the alternator is charging. Check with a test light that there is actually battery power at the alternator with the engine not running. As stated all testing should be done with a voltmeter. A 6 volt alternator should read 7.5 volts at the alternator with the engine revs up, and like wise a 12 volt alt should have about 14 volts. These one wire alternators need some revs up to start them charging and may not charge at idle speed. Regards, Kevin.