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Old 09-24-2018, 05:04 PM   #1
30 Closed Cab PU
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Default Generator Adjust

attached picture1st time adjustment on a generator, recent replacement from Ebay. I have not done this before, can not find my Les Andrews book.


Pumping out 15 amps without lights/load, high rpms.


I've researched her and on the internet. Can not get the 3rd brush to move. using a half width pencil, with lead removed. Tried tapping and other things to get the brush to move. Some threads mention a nut, but I do not see one.


Help.


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Old 09-24-2018, 05:10 PM   #2
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

Trying to get picture attached, trying again

Last edited by 30 Closed Cab PU; 10-03-2018 at 11:43 AM.
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Old 09-24-2018, 05:15 PM   #3
J Franklin
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

It might need some lubrication and get freed up. What kind of generator is it? The photo is too small for me to see.
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Old 09-24-2018, 05:35 PM   #4
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

More pics.


Where would I lube?


The lube points on the pulley end and other end have been lubed.


To clarify, I am trying to move the assembly below the opening located towards the bottom of the opening, toward the top of the opening, correct?

Last edited by 30 Closed Cab PU; 10-03-2018 at 11:43 AM.
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Old 09-24-2018, 05:47 PM   #5
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

The adjustable brush may be frozen in place look at its holder and give it a spray of penetrating oil. You generator band needs to be removed to get a good look inside. Only push on the holder not the brush.
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Old 09-24-2018, 05:47 PM   #6
Bob C
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It would be easier if you take the band off the generator.


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Old 09-24-2018, 05:52 PM   #7
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

15 amps is just great if you put a fun projects voltage regulator on it.
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Old 09-24-2018, 06:06 PM   #8
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

Thanks for the band suggestion, did not realize it was on, since there was an opening, Whoever put this on from Ebay did not locate so the opening was completely covered.


Attached is what I have. You move the part that has the black wire screwed to it?


Not the spring assy?


No worries about getting PB blaster on the armature/brush?


I know this is basic stuff, I just have no clue.


Thanks

Last edited by 30 Closed Cab PU; 10-03-2018 at 11:43 AM.
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Old 09-24-2018, 06:45 PM   #9
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

Thanks, figured it out with your help.


I was pushing on the wrong part. Took the fuse out and pushed hard on the top part. It moved, moves harder than I expected. Set to 6 amps (do not drive at night). Put the band back on.


If I do drive at night, now I know how, it is simple to adjust again.
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Old 09-24-2018, 09:09 PM   #10
Tom Wesenberg
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

I like even less amps. Unless you do night drives and lots of short drives, I'd adjust it to 2 to 3 amps. Your generator was used from late 28 to early 1930, and the maximum safe output is 12 amps, but that's too much for daytime driving.
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Old 09-24-2018, 09:29 PM   #11
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

Quote:
Originally Posted by Tom Wesenberg View Post
I like even less amps. Unless you do night drives and lots of short drives, I'd adjust it to 2 to 3 amps. Your generator was used from late 28 to early 1930, and the maximum safe output is 12 amps, but that's too much for daytime driving.

Hi Tom, thanks for the advice.


I am reving up (high revs) until it will not charge higher current, and adjust there at that point. Or do you adjust at a lower speed, I've seen posts recommending to adjust at revs equivalent to 20 MPH for the desired current setting.


Right now I am also chasing electrical issues with lights. 1st blowing fuses when turning head lamps on, found a socket spring pin that was shorting only when the Bulb was plugged in. Now I noticed all lamps in the other headlight which were OK are now not working, both the the headlight and parking lamp. So I have my goal tomorrow, supposed to rain anyway.
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Old 09-25-2018, 12:49 AM   #12
Tom Wesenberg
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

Adjusting at 20 MPH engine speed is good, as that's about 1000 engine RPM.
Repro headlamp sockets often have loose fitting contacts that short to each other or to ground. Mine are original and have no problems.
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Old 09-25-2018, 01:47 AM   #13
john charlton
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

My generator is set to 10 amps so I run with the parking lights on for longer trips .On high beam there is a 2 amp discharge so several hours of night time driving which I doubt I would ever do . Most modern cars run with lights on as a safety feature so it works for me too.

John in sunny high pressure morning Suffolk County England.
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Old 09-26-2018, 11:07 AM   #14
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

The Ford Service Bulletins (my new BFF) mention charging rate in three places, and are rather inconsistent:

Jan. 1928, p. 209 - 14A winter, 10A summer
Dec. 1928, p. 302 - 10A (winter) @1500 rpm
May 1929, p. 345 - 6A (summer)

They all say "adjust for individual driving conditions'' so it's a pretty vague guideline.

Installing a modern regulator eliminates the worry of battery overcharge, but won't do anything for undercharge from burning too many high-candlepower bulbs.
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Old 09-27-2018, 05:20 PM   #15
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Default Re: Generator Adjust

Just realized the first FSB is probably referring to the powerhouse generator, capable of upwards of 20 amps. With these, burn all the candlepower you want,
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