Overcharging

[Speedwagon]

While out in the boat a couple times over the past month, I noticed the voltmeter go up to what I gather to be 16-17V. This is on an 85 170 engine I think.. the kind without a seperate alternator.

Is the voltage regulator built into the alternator/crank thing? I haven't put a multimeter to the boat yet to verify the onboard VM readings. Doesn't do it right away. Seems to do it when I've been out on the water for awhile, and everything has warmed up completely.

If I find it is overcharging, where do I look next on this thing?

 

[Don S]

Re: Overcharging

The regulator is on the port side of the engine. It's rectangular and has a water hose in and out of it along with the wires. It's water cooled.
Yes, the regulators can go bad and cause your problem. Could also be a defective battery. I would get the batteries load tested first. IF they are ok, then the regulator would be suspect.
But before you start spending hundreds of bucks on repair parts, better consider an alternator conversion. The regulator alone costs $426 (list) from Merc.

 

[Speedwagon]

Re: Overcharging

But before you start spending hundreds of bucks on repair parts, better consider an alternator conversion. The regulator alone costs $426 (list) from Merc.

Good lord! I've read a little bit about that conversion, though didn't read too deeply into the matter.

 

[Don S]

Re: Overcharging

Bet you're doing more reading on it now, aren't you?