How to check a rectifier?

gmarshall43

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
May 5, 2002
Messages
210
I have a 1976 110 Mercury, 9.8hp. The motor can take quite a few pulls before it starts but idles and runs find. When I throttle up to top speed I can hear arcing but the motor seems to run find. I'm going to check the points but I thought I would check the rectifier as well since I will have the flywheel off. Problem is I really do not know how to check it. Any suggestions anyone? Also am I looking in the right area?<br /><br />Thanks
 

Paul Moir

Admiral
Joined
Nov 5, 2002
Messages
6,847
Re: How to check a rectifier?

I see by your profile that you're an electronics tech. So to answer your question simply, it's a bridge rectifier, so test it as such. The AC inputs are the two posts where the stator connects (the wires that lead up under the flywheel). The post that leads to the battery is the + terminal of the bridge, and the - terminal is hard wired to the mounting plate.<br />If you need further detail, please don't hesitate to ask!
 

SeaHorse

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Oct 2, 2001
Messages
205
Re: How to check a rectifier?

If you hear "arcing" it is probably across the points which are probably burned up. They burn up when the condenser(s) fail, allowing them to arc.
 
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