FLASHING THE FIELD
TESTING AND ADJUSTING
FLASHING THE FIELD
If the generator rotating field (L5) or the exciter field (L3)
have a loss of residual magnetism. the magnetism can
be put back by "flashing" the exciter field winding with a
direct current 6 volt source. This source can be a 6 volt
battery or a stationary battery charger.
DYNAMIC FLASHING (ENGINE RUNNING)
With the engine stopped, connect a voltmeter
(one with a high degree of accuracy) to terminals (20
and 22). Connect the positive "+" cable of the six volt
source to terminal (F1). Start the engine and run at low
idle rpm. Put the negative cable of the six volt source on
terminal (F2) while reading the voltmeter. As soon as
the voltmeter has an indication, remove the negative
cable from terminal (F2).
NOTE: If the negative cable of the DC source is held
on terminal (F2) too long, the generator voltage can
become too high and cause fuse (F1) to open. An
ON-OFF switch in the DC source makes the work
safer and easier. If a battery is the 6 volt source, a
blocking diode in series with the battery decreases
the chance of blowing (opening) the fuse (F1).
FLASHING
WITH
ENGINE
STOPPED
(STATIC
FLASHING)
With the engine stopped, disconnect exciter filed
(L3) wires; (F1) from terminal (F1) and (F2) from terminal
(F2). Connect the positive “+” cable of the six volt
source to wire (F1). Put the negative “-“ cable from the
source and wire (F2) together for a moment, (two or
three times). DO NOT HOLD THEM TOGETHER FOR
MORE THAN ONE OR TWO SECONDS.
NOTE: According to theory, this method has the effect
of putting residual magnetism back in the exciter field.
A more practical method is to flash the field with the
engine running. This is dynamic flashing.
80
