HOW TO CHECK A VOLTAGE REGULATOR OPERABILITY?

Despite its small size, a voltage regulator is one of the essential elements of automotive electric equipment. This key executive unit must be in good health. 

ROLE OF A VOLTAGE REGULATOR

A voltage regulator controls alternator output voltage by keeping it within certain limits. It ensures the proper operation of in-vehicle systems and battery charging. 

There are voltage regulators of different configurations, for example:

• a module of a brush assembly that uses it as a supporting element
• an individual component fixed on the alternator body with a mounting bracket 

Regardless of its configuration, a voltage regulator is a one-piece unit. A faulty unit cannot be subject to repair. 

SIGNS OF VOLTAGE REGULATOR FAILURE

Voltage regulator failure followed by the battery under- or overcharging may result in:

• engine starting problem
• dim or flickering headlamp light
• a dashboard battery indicator is on when the engine is running
• battery terminals and body are covered with a white patina
• a vehicle can be completely de-energized

We cannot conclude about the voltage regulator health on the grounds of external symptoms alone. If one of the above symptoms shows, it's a good reason for comprehensive alternator diagnostics.

DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT FOR VOLTAGE REGULATORS

Using MSG Equipment diagnostic systems, we can perform full-scale diagnostics of alternator voltage regulators.  

Diagnosing automotive units with testers MS016, MS015 COM, and MS013 COM doesn't require removal from a car. Voltage regulator performance is controlled by the testers which enables detection of faults in the unit operation. In addition to it, testers MS016 and MS013 COM can test voltage regulators separately from alternators.

Testers MS005, MS008, MS006, MS002, and MS004 diagnose alternators removed from cars. In addition to controlling voltage regulators, they are used to set load on alternators simulating their real-time operation. In such a way, we can detect voltage regulator faults and other alternator problems.

MSG Equipment develops and manufactures diagnostic systems for garages, automotive service centers, and repair shops of any size. The use of diagnostic equipment facilitates the work of automotive mechanics and shortens the repair of automotive units and systems. 

ESTIMATED PAY-OFF PERIOD

Among other factors, seasonal fluctuation affects the estimated pay-off period.  Demand for starter and alternator repair grows during the cold season and falls when it’s warm. In the warm season, purchase, repair, and sale of used starters and alternators can become a sound option. It will preclude equipment downtime and load a lot of work on staff.

To keep the performance high, delivery of other related services in addition to the automotive starter and alternator repair and rebuilding is essential. 

Repair and Rebuilding Workshop for Starters & Alternators

Workshop staff: 6 mechanics

Pay rate: 30% of output; costs of spare parts are not included.

Automotive Repair Shop (diagnostics and repair of starters and alternators, replacement of motor brushes, starter solenoids, and other automotive parts)

Workshop staff: 12 mechanics

Pay rate: 30% of output

The average number of alternators serviced by one mechanic during one working day:

Minor/medium failures – 10-15 units per day (20 for experienced mechanics)

Major failures (the repair requires complete disassembly of the unit) – 2-3 units per day

Average repair costs

Minor/medium failures: 1 unit – $15, net profit - $10

Major failures: 1 unit - $35, net profit - $20-25

If you start up a business and have just a few employees, then the below case will give you an idea of the estimated profit at the early stages.

Case

Staff: 3 mechanics

Daily output:

Repair (minor/medium) – 3 units

Repair (major) – 3 units

Estimated daily income

 IMPORTANT! Spare parts must always be in stock.