Hugh's PMA voltage output

[mechanicScott]

Trying to figure out what's going on with my bike...
I already checked for continuity between the 3 yellow wires - 0.6 ohms on all

Want to check the stator output but not sure where it should be at??

While the bike is running (idle) what should the 3 yellow wires be reading??

 

[mechanicScott]

I'm getting a reading of just over 3 AC volts while the bike is idling...

Is that right? Or should it be more with the PMA?

 

[Stigda]

I belive your voltage should be higher. It shall push current to your battery, so the voltage out from your regulator Must be at least 12 - 14,4 volts dc. I am waiting for parts for my Hugs PMA, hop it is good for my 1975. Was your regulator hooked off when measuring?

 

[retiredgentleman]

I'm getting a reading of just over 3 AC volts while the bike is idling...

Is that right? Or should it be more with the PMA?

I've never owned or measured voltage of a PMA. However, I am familiar with alternators in general. My 78 SE stock alternator puts out 12.5 to 13 volts AC with engine idling. A PMA would most likely require the same output.

Your meter measures rms AC voltage. That rms AC voltage is actually higher by a maximum of 1.414 when converted to DC at a battery or capacitor. 3 volts rms only gives a maximum of 4.24 volts DC, which just won't get the job done.

12.5 AC rms will go to a maximum of 17.67 volts DC, but never goes that high because there are voltage drops in the rectifier and the regulator controls the maximum DC voltage.