300 Not Charging

Va Gasman · May 5, 2013

I have a 300 that is 12 volt and had an alternator installed. For the last 4 months no problem with it charging. But this past Friday when I pulled it out of shed the amp gauge is dead at 12'oclock and no charge. What would be my first step to check this out?

Janicholson · May 5, 2013

Tap on the gauge when running. If it was running in the picture, the gauge should have indicated a discharge of about 2 to 3 amps (assuming it was not charging)
Check battery voltage when running at about 2/3 throttle. it should be 14.2 volts or so. If it is, the alt is charging, and the gauge is stuck. If it is not charging, (voltage at 12.4 to 12.6) then tell us which alternator it has so we can assist correctly. Jim

David G · May 6, 2013

I agree with Jim, AGAIN, check the voltage.

John T · May 6, 2013

I agree with the other gents, although sure the alternator may be at fault (but which the battery voltage test can help diagnose), Id FIRST suspect maybe the ammeter is just stuck. If you tap it like Jimbo said or use Bob M's method of running a magnet over its face (should make it move unless its stuck) it may start working again. If not have the alternator checked and/or check the wiring and excitation voltage source yourself, maybe its just not getting EXCITED lol

John T

El Toro · May 6, 2013

Use a volt meter and check the battery voltage at your battery with the engine at 1/2 throttle or better. Hal

300 Not Charging

Va Gasman

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Janicholson

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David G

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John T

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El Toro

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