starter generator

[eibbed 63]

I've got a starter generator that I want to test before I list it for sale.

How can I find out if it is good?

If it checks out ok, what approximately would be a fair price to ask for it?

Thanks,

Dave

[VinsRJ 723]

I'm sure someone will chime in with specifics, but I remember getting the procedure off google.

I know you need a test light and someway to spin the starter/generator more than like 250rpm.

[Save Old Iron 1,571]

Dave,

is it on or off the tractor ?

[rmaynard 16,333]

Several have sold recently on eBay for $39 to $43 plus shipping.

[eibbed 63]

Hi Chuck,

It's off of the tractor. It's one that doesn't have the holes in it to mount the regulator to.

Dave

[Save Old Iron 1,571]

Dave,

off the tractor is a little tricky, it is like judging a car engine that is outside the car.

If you connect the SG unit to a battery (ground to the SG case, positive to the "A" terminal), the SG unit should spin up nicely just as when it is used to start the tractor engine.

This checks the MECHANICAL condition of the unit and the electrical condition of the STARTER section of the SG.

Checking the Field function or the CHARGING capability of the SG is a little more difficult.

You could TEMPORARILY GROUND the Field terminal while the SG unit is running connected to the battery. Ground this terminal only for a few seconds.

The field terminal being grounded will cause the SG unit to try to generate a back voltage into the battery and cause the SG to "strain" or slow down somewhat.

This process will at least check the field coils are intact. It WILL NOT guarantee the SG unit will charge properly and that some of the field coils won't be shorted out. The charging function is best performed on a tractor or test bed dedicated to checking SG units.