Buick 1116423 Voltage Regulator

A discharged battery is often caused by a fault in the voltage regulator, so before testing the unit, check the drivebelt tension, test the battery's condition, and inspect the charging circuit for loose connections and broken wires. Ensure that lights or other electrical accessories have not been inadvertently left switched on. Verify the generator indicator lamp for normal illumination with the ignition on and off, and with the engine idling and stationary. Disconnect the battery ground cable and the harness connector, then remove the screws securing the unit to the vehicle. Avoid cleaning the voltage regulator contacts with abrasive materials, as this can damage the contact material. Relay point and air-gap adjustments can be checked with a feeler gauge for approximate settings if needed. The field relay point opening can be adjusted by bending the stop, while the air gap is checked with the points just touching and adjusted by bending the flat contact spring. The field relay typically operates satisfactorily even if the air gap is outside specified limits, but adjustments should be made when the system is functioning well. Installation follows the reverse of the removal procedure, ensuring that the rubber gasket is in place on the regulator base.