Certified_and_Master_Tech's_on_Hand

Please note an analog meter must be used for the test.  A digital one may give false readings.

Alternator

Produces alternating current.

Rectifier

Changes the alternating current AC to direct current 

DC.  The rectifier uses diodes (one way gates to 

accomplish this task)

Voltage Regulator

Used to limit the amount of current delivered to the

battery.  The Rectifier accomplishes this by shorting 

on yellow stator lead to ground.

Voltage Regulator/Rectifier 

Performs both jobs of the separate components

combined.

Battery 

Stores DC current, the current stored in the battery

is used to start the engine and operate lights and 

accessories.

Remove leads from Rectifier.

With an Ohm meter, place the Red lead on the

+ Terminal on the Rectifier.

Place the Black lead on the AC Terminal

Repeat the above steps for both the AC Terminals.

The Ohm meter should show continuity.

Not Shown

Remove leads from the Rectifier.

With an Ohm Meter, place the Red lead on the

AC Terminal on the Rectifier.

Place the Black lead on the - Terminal

Repeat the above steps for both the AC Terminals.

Continuity should only be read 1 way.

If it reads both ways, the Rectifier is BAD

Please Note.

If you have a Johnson or Evinrude, Yellow wires

will be the equivalent of the AC Terminal and the red will be the +

They are tested the same way as the tests written here.

Remove leads from Rectifier.

With an Ohm Meter, place the Red lead on the

AC Terminal on the Rectifier.

Place the Black lead on the + Terminal

Repeat the above steps for both the AC Terminals.

If the Ohm meter shows continuity, the Rectifier is BAD.