1965 charging system issues

[Archie73]

I can’t get my battery to charge. I have replaced alternator with 75 amp new one. Changed belt. Changed battery. Changed solenoid. Changed wiring harness to voltage regulator. Have tried different new voltage regulators. I am stuck. The multimeter will only stay in low 12. I am trying everything but ready to take to shop. I am stuck.

 

[74 Harley]

Did you polarize the new regulator? They won't always charge if you don't. The other thing to do is take that new alternator to a parts store and have it tested. Lots of new ones don't work right out of the box.

 

[Archie73]

Honestly I have not heard of polarizing. I have tried 2 different rebuilt alternators and then this brand new one.

 

[Frankie the Fink]

He says he has an alternator (no polarizing required) but if he didn't, then polarizing the generator (not the voltage regulator) is required..

OP - When are you measuring the 12V ? With engine running at fast idle ? A properly running alternator should produce 13.8V to 14.2V as measured across the battery terminals at a fast idle.

And, yes, you can go to Autozone, etc. and they'll "load test" the charging system without removing anything (battery/alternator)