test for rectifier

[liberatorx2]

MTCM , I VE SEEN A POST YOU MADE ON TESTING A RECTIFIER , BUT DID A SEARCH & DIDNT FIND IT--- motor is 1997 2.5 260. what is correct way to test the rectifier ? i have a ampmeter , but not sure what to look for. just installed a new drycell battery & then a new small motorcycle battery for the 24 volt trim. after running today , & starting engine 10-12 times , i could tell the12 volt battery was starting to weaken. battery was at 100% when i went to lake. can i check amps coming from battery with key off , & then crank engine & check again, shouldnt it read a couple more amps with motor running if the rectifier is good ?? help guys , suppose to race this weekend.....THANKS RICK MOORE

[Bill Rogers]

Rick, for a quick look at charging systems, I like to use a voltmeter rather than an ammeter.

Check the voltage at the battery. A fully charged battery will be above 12.5 volts and perhaps as high as 12.9. With the engine running the voltage should go up to at least 14.

Charging problems are indicated if the voltage doesn't change or changes very little with the engine running.

[MTCM]

From the 260 Service Manual..............

[MTCM]

The chart..................

[MTCM]

Rick,

Call me if you need to..............I think you have my number. Take care.

[liberatorx2]

THANKS GUYS....THATS WHAT I NEEDED. I'LL DO THE TEST TOMORROW. I'M PRETTY SURE I FRIED ANOTHER RECT. TODAY. WAS IN A HURRY HOOKING UP DRY CELL BATTERY & SMALL MOTOR CYCLE BATTERY FOR 24 VOLT TRIM & CROSSED WIRES FOR SPLIT SECOND ......I NEW INSTANTLY WHAT I DID. THEN HAD TO TAKE STARTER OFF & TAKE IT TO BE REBUILT CAUSE IT'S BAD. IT WAS SPINNIMG SLOW LATELY. WHEN I TOUCHED IT , IT WAS SO HOT I BLISTERED MY FINGERS. THANKS AGAIN.....RICK MOORE