Ski-Doo Formula S 1998, Shop Manual

Page: 252 / 338

Section 06 ELECTRICAL
Subsection 07 (TESTING PROCEDURE)
06-07-15
VOLTAGE REGULATOR INSPECTION
A faulty voltage regulator is often responsible for
frequent burned bulbs.
TESTING PROCEDURE
The regulator ground must be checked to ensure
the circuit is complete. If necessary, connect a
good ground wire from the regulator to the en-
gine.
A) Quick Test Without Voltmeter
If a voltmeter is not available, a visual test can be
performed with satisfactory results.
Disconnect all lights and electric equipment.
While engine is running, disconnect and connect
regulator connector several times checking for a
spark.
A spark on regulator terminal indicates a good and
working regulator.
B) Voltmeter Test
NOTE: Use a voltmeter able to read alternating
current (AC). For accurate reading, use a RMS
voltmeter.
Connect a wire of the voltmeter to YELLOW/BLACK
wire.
Connect the other wire of the voltmeter to YEL-
LOW wire.
Lift the rear of vehicle and support with a mechan-
ical stand.
Start the engine at an idle without opening the
throttle.
Slowly open the throttle and accelerate the en-
gine to increase the RPM.
If the meter reads over 15 volts, the regulator is
defective and must be replaced.
NOTE: Whatever the voltmeter type used (peak
voltage or RMS) the voltage must not exceed
15 V (a defective regulator will allow voltage to ex-
ceed 15 V as engine RPM is increased).
-
CAUTION
Never run an engine with a faulty or inoper-
ative voltage regulator. This could damage
the DUCATI CDI module.
-
CAUTION
Do not perform this test on engines that
have a DUCATI CDI system.
;
WARNING
Ensure the track is free of particles which
might be thrown out while track is rotating.
Keep hands, tools, feet and clothing clear of
track. Ensure no one is standing in close
proximity to the vehicle.
-
CAUTION
Do not increase the RPM so the voltage ex-
ceeds 15 V as the bulb(s) will burn.