[HUH?]

As part of a interior make over on my '55 Chevy I replaced the ammeter with a
voltage meter and upgraded to a Sony CD / radio. The voltage meter reads 16
volts when the motor is running. The reading was verified with a digital multi
meter @ 15.97 - 16.01 volts.

It has a GM alternator with an external regulator. The battery is new. I am in
fear of frying my new radio (among other things).

Your thoughts?

Thanks,
Dave

 

[docvette]

Doc here, imp:

Sounds like your Voltage Regulator is set too high, you need to be no higher than 14.4 Volts at cut off.

You need to adjust the air Gap and field relay contact points to achieve this. Look in your manual for the appropriate Gap (my olde mind has forgotten what that used to be) and set it accordingly. That should bring it back to 14.4 volts at operating speed.

BE sure you remove the battery cable before sticking a feeler gauge in there.

Doc imp:

 

[HUH?]

Doc,

For no more than what they cost, the best solution would be a new
Wells VR715 electronic regulator YES/NO?
I think NAPA has them for $14.99, part #VR142SB.

Thanks for your help,
Dave

My album with pics of '55 Chevy rebuild

 

[docvette]

Doc here, imp:

Yes! In fact I was going to suggest that..But in the past, most guy's didn't want to make the upgrade..( fear or wiring I guess.. ) But most certainly, it is a much better unit.

Doc imp:

 

[HUH?]

Thanks Doc!

Doc,

Once you identified the voltage regulator as the likely culprit a quick search
of this forum revealed the Wells VR715 solid state regulator as a desirable
replacement. With a trip to NAPA and $15 my car is now comfortably operating
at 14.4 volts.

A "heads up" for everyone:
I found the voltage problem when I changed from an ammeter to a volt meter.
I would never have been aware of the problem until some expensive electrical
component burned up. Lacking a voltmeter in your gauge package, it may be
wise to check your system occasionally with a digital multimeter.

Thanks again Doc and the Electrical Forum,
Dave

 

[T-bucket23]

Bet you were changing a lot of light bulbs. That used to be the tip off

 

[docvette]

Doc here, imp:

That VR 75 ( I think that's the one I recommended in many other posts) Will last you for many years..and I think you'll be real happy with it ! Good Job! :thumbup:

It is More "User Friendly" toward modern Electronics (should you have any installed on your rod) than a mechanical regulator.

BTW: nice collection Of 55,56,57's ! I'd give my right arm for a few of them to restore into 50's style streeters..(you only junk hulks way overpriced here in The California Bay Area..so I won't buy into any..)

Enjoy your Rod, Saint Patty's day and summer coming up ! (it's 81 degrees here today..makes me want to cruise! )

Doc imp: