Charging System Testing - Polaris SCRAMBLER 50 Service Manual

ELECTRICAL

CHARGING SYSTEM TESTING

Whenever charging system problems are suspected,
proceed with the following system check.
Using a multitester set on D.C. volts, mea-
sure the battery open circuit voltage (See
Page 5.5). It should be 12.5 volts or more.
Is it?
Yes
Meter Setting: DC Volts
With the drive wheels securely off the ground,
start the engine and increase RPM to between
3000 and 4000. Read battery voltage with the
multitester. Readings should increase to be-
tween 13.0 and 14.6 V D.C. Are they?
No
Meter Setting: DC Amps
Perform system "Break Even Amperage"
test outlined on Page 5.9.
Does charging occur as specified?
No
Ohm stator wire (W/YR) If bad replace, if good,
continue with alternator output test.
Meter Setting: AC Amps
Disconnect the Yellow/Red, White, and Red
wires from the regulator/rectifier. Using a
multitester, perform an Alternator Output
(AC amp) test. See test procedure on
page 5.9 for procedure.
Is output above 5 amps?
Yes
Meter Setting: DC Volts
Reconnect the alternator wires. Battery volt-
age must be present on red wire terminal on
harness side of voltage regulator connector.
Is it?
Yes
If all of the previous tests indicate a
good condition, but the charging voltage
does not rise above battery voltage at the
connector , replace the voltage regulator.
5.8
Remove the battery and properly ser-
vice. Reinstall the fully charged battery
No
or a fully charged shop battery.
Check Key off Current Draw
Yes
Should between .1 and .2 volts
Check for owner modification, and
discuss operating habits. The battery
will continually discharge if operated
Yes
below the "Break Even" RPM. Con-
tinued problems would call for battery
Inspect the wiring harness be-
tween the panel and the stator for
damage. If no damage is found,
No
remove the recoil and flywheel.
Inspect the flywheel magnets, sta-
tor coils and stator wire harness
for damage. Repair or replace
any damaged components.
Check regulator/rectifier connections
No and ground, battery connections, cir-
cuit breaker and connecting wires.
Repair or replace faulty wiring or
components.
inspection.