Always Showing Charge

[tucker6077]

1933 model 40 always showing charge , needle doesn't even bounce when I beep horn or turn light son Etc. Goes to midway when ingnition is turned off.???

[Juergen]

With the engine off, what does the amp show when you turn the lights on?

[tucker6077]

pulls down towards discharge

[tucker6077]

Gen set to high ?

[Charlie Stephens]

Your generator (assuming it is stock) doesn't have regulator (like modern cars) and will always charge. I would expect the charging rate to drop (probably about 10 amps) when you turn the lights on. What readings are you getting? It should have a "third brush" you can adjust for the charging rate (search for it on fordbarn.com).

Charlie Stephens

[Juergen]

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The ammeter seems to be wired correctly as it shows a discharge when a load is applied and a charge when running.
If your car has a regulator and the generator power is sufficient, you won't see a wiggle as the generator will supply the needed power to the lights and/or horn. Probably not at idle but at speed. At idle, the generator output is insufficient so you should see an increased discharge just like you do when the engine is off.
Can you tell if you have a regulator?

[ndnchf]

Here is a short video I made showing how to adjust the 3rd brush. Perhaps you will find it helpful.

https://youtu.be/PL94VX3GIq8?si=aXtphpBXAxolu3O3