Start/Gen Reversed A1/F2 Connections???

BradVR4

I bought a used Yamaha G2 Gas Golf Cart (J38-07s 1988 model), and am knee deep in learning about it. Looks like the battery isn't charging properly - I've researched and found some good info on how to test the generator, voltage regulator, etc.

If I charge the battery up on a wall charger, it will start run for awhile pretty good, but the battery will eventually die.

MY MAIN CONCERN: I found a wiring diagram, and have initial concerns that someone hooked up the A1 and F2 terminals incorrectly (swapped). I'm thinking this might be the issue, but wanted to make sure I was reading this correctly before I swapped them around. Please take a look at this picture of my cart (I've labeled the posts as they are stamped on generator), and wiring diagram and tell me if I am crazy (attached).


Thank you in advance!
-Brad

Attached Images

	G2 Generator Wiring.jpg (201.1 KB, 0 views)
	G2 Wiring Diagram.jpg (179.7 KB, 0 views)

BGW

__________________
This advertising will not be shown in this way to registered members.
Register your free account today and become a member on Buggies Gone Wild Golf Cart Forum

cgtech

If you swap them, the result should be a motor that now spins backwards.

BradVR4

After more research I went ahead and swapped them - the motor turns same direction as before, and actually everything seems to run smoother (probably just in my head) - anyhow when I read the voltage across the battery terminals now it reads 16+ volts while revved up, vs 10-11 that it was before.

I guess I need to check my voltage regulator now - as I understand it, I think my voltage needs to be 14.5 or so while revved, I might be overcharging my battery.

BradVR4

UPDATE:

I unbolted and uncapped the voltage regulator, inside I was able to see the little oscillator was screwed down so tight, it was making a permanent connection rather than floating back and forth when the cart ran.. so I guess it was just passing through the full 16-17 volts with direct contact.. I was able to loosen the nut and adjust the screw to eventually get it to settle on 14.5 volts at the battery, and could been seen fluttering back and forth. Closed everything up, and the cart runs great, battery was sufficiently charged after a few mile trip around the neighborhood.

Hopefully this will help someone out new like myself diagnose similar issues. I'm glad I started with a wiring diagram, and traced everything around to see that the generator was hooked up wrong. Never assume things are done right - I bought this cart from a guy who makes fast track race cars - had lots of finely tuned cars in his garage, so I assumed this cart would be wired correctly - oops!

meimk

Glad you got it going. I have always contended that good information (like wiring diagrams) are the most important tool. Golf carts are just different enough to confuse a "car guy" who goes in without the right information. Add to that the fact that it's a 2 stroke, so that starter generator has to function in both directions. I'm sure the "mechanic" meant well, but was thinking of it like a car - which it not.