Tester for Car and Motorcycle Regulators TR-1

The Digital Regulator Tester TR-1 allows for testing the functionality of regulators in older generation cars and motorcycles. It tests the battery charging start voltage as well as the cutoff charging voltage.

The tester simulates the output voltage of the alternator to the battery; it checks whether the regulator passes the current, when charging begins (start charging voltage), and when it stops the current flow (cutoff voltage).

Given that the main function of the regulator is to allow the current necessary to charge the battery and to stop the current flow once the battery voltage reaches about 13.7 to 14.2 volts, thus preventing “overcharging” and possible damage to the battery, this device ensures that function is accurately tested.

• First and most common fault: The regulator is damaged and does not pass current, thus preventing the battery from charging.
• Second fault: The regulator cuts the current flow under load, even when the battery voltage has not reached the 13.7 to 14.2V threshold. This results in insufficient battery charging, reduced power output, and potential permanent battery damage.
• Third fault: The regulator fails to cut off the charging current, even when the battery voltage exceeds 14.2V. This leads to overheating of the battery due to chemical processes inside the battery, causing permanent cell damage.