Testing charging system

[Crispy]

The Tach. on my 1998 Fast strike only reads in the low rpm's. It then cuts out at higher speeds. I have been doing some research and tested the amp output between red lead on Rec/Reg. and selinoide. I'm getting a reading of 2.7-3.2 amps output. Obviously this is a low output. I think I should be around 10 amps. Is this a correct way of troubleshooting the Reg/Rec. on this outboard. I recently replaced the powerpack. Boat is running but with this Tach issue I don't want to take a chance and fry another powerpack.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Testing charging system

test in the engine faq forum

 

[F_R]

Re: Testing charging system

It is the job of a regulator to reduce the amps when the battery is near fully charged. It detects that by monitoring the voltage. When voltage reaches the design limit, alternator output (amps) is reduced.

Is your tach connected to the correct alternator wire?

 

[Crispy]

Re: Testing charging system

Tracing the harness back from and including dashboard, it sure seems that wires are properly connected. Ive done some continuity tests on purple wire, ground wires, ect. This erratic tach. problem originated last year. Then, suddenly lost the power pack. I purchased and installed the p.p. The engine fired off. But the tach. issue remained.

Reading past posts here at iboats.com I am concerned I have a charging problem. I read in my shop manual that I could do a crank test to find out if I had a bad rec/reg. I am unsure of what that exactly means.

I have two manuals and they describe a few different procedures. Also I read the post by Reeves on troubleshooting Tach. I don't think that test is for this particular engine. Could be wrong, any help would be appreciated.

Crispy