It does get a little confusing Norm because of what people call the rectifier when referring to the charging system.
I thought you had already tested the stator output to confirm the red wire has a Rectifier diode ( converts AC to DC)
This is something you test or look up part numbers to be sure what you have as there are a few different charging systems.
If the red wire doesn't convert AC to DC then it must just be a Diode.
Non-Rectifying Diode or Protection Diode: There are instances where the diode serves a different purpose, such as:
Flyback or Protection Diode: It might be used to prevent voltage spikes or back EMF from damaging the stator or electrical components, but this typically will still serve to redirect current rather than perform rectification.
In some systems, particularly where DC is necessary, the diode is used primarily for protection rather than full rectification, but this would be less common.
If the component in question is converting AC (alternating current) to DC (direct current), it is functioning as a rectifier diode
The rectifier diode also prevent reverse flow of current back to the stator.
People can refer to the rectifier diode as just a rectifier or just a diode but the correct term is rectifier diode if it converts AC to DC.
It's a Rectifier that has diodes inside so people call it a diode or rectifier , if you test the DC output and it's unregulated your rectifier
doesn't have an inbuilt regulator.
The primary function of a rectifier is to convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC), and this is accomplished by using diodes.
Additionally, check if there are any additional components in your charging system that may also contribute to voltage regulation
1 With the Basic Rectifier: If it is simply a diode rectifier, then it will only convert AC to DC without regulating the voltage. In this case, the output voltage can vary with engine speed and can exceed the desired voltage, potentially leading to overcharging the battery.
A basic rectifier, which is typically a half-wave or full-wave rectifier using diodes, will not regulate the voltage of the DC output. It will simply convert the AC input to a pulsating DC output, which can vary in amplitude depending on the AC input and the diode characteristics.
2 Full-Wave Rectifier: Uses multiple diodes (typically four in a bridge configuration) to convert both halves of the AC waveform into DC.
A full-wave rectifier uses diodes arranged in such a way (often in a bridge configuration) to allow both halves of the AC waveform to contribute to the output, resulting in a smoother pulsating DC output compared to a half-wave rectifier.
When people refer to a "diode" in the context of rectification circuits, they are often referring to the role that diodes play in the rectification process.
Some Stators have a Rectifier Regulator All-in-One.
Steps to Identify a Rectifier Regulator All-in-One
Labeling: Look for labels or markings on the component. If it is indeed a rectifier regulator, it may be labeled as such. Common terms include "Regulator/Rectifier" or simply "R/R."
Physical Characteristics: These units are typically larger than a standard rectifier / diode
The following is a list to lest the rectifier .
Multimeter Testing for a Rectifier Regulator All-in-One.
AC Voltage Testing: With the engine running, check the AC output from the alternator (typically using AC voltage settings on a multimeter) before the component. You should get a rising AC voltage as the engine speed increases.
DC Voltage Testing: Measure the output voltage from the suspect component while the engine is running. If you get a stable DC voltage (usually around 12-14 volts) regardless of engine speed after the component, it's likely functioning as a rectifier regulator.
No Load Comparison: Check the voltage with and without load; if the voltage remains stable within the normal operating range under varying loads, it suggests regulation is also occurring
Check the part number of your rectifier or regulator and look for its specifications online or in a parts catalog. Most manufacturers provide documentation indicating whether a part is just a rectifier, just a regulator, or a combined rectifier regulator.
To determine if you have a rectifier regulator all-in-one for a Briggs and Stratton motor, look for labels, consult wiring diagrams, perform voltage tests, and check manufacturer specifications. This examination will clarify whether the part serves both the rectifying and regulating functions.
Cheers
Max.
