Polarization Test

Updated 4 years ago by Juan Velez

The covers all Champion Power Equipment models featuring an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR):

Read instructions carefully and completely before performing service.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand the operator’s manual before using this product.
DO NOT make any adjustments to the generator without first stopping the engine and disconnecting the spark plug wire.
Burns from hot parts — let the engine cool completely before touching hot parts.
Injury from moving parts
To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline. Keep cigarettes, sparks and flames away from all fuel‐related parts.

Tools required: 7 mm wrench or socket.

Time required: 0.1 hr. (6 minutes)

Remove the two 7 mm bolts that secure the round, yellow generator end cover.
Remove the cover.
Locate the two blade terminals connecting the AVR to the brush assembly. This connection is found at the 12 o'clock position.
One terminal has a band on the wire with a (+) sign on it. This is the positive connection.
The other wire is either going to be either white or yellow and is the negative (-) connection.
Remove the negative connection and then start the generator.
Taking the disconnected negative terminal, scratch it over the mating connection. This should result in a noticeable, low voltage electric spark (no danger of shock!).
If there is a noticeable spark, the field has successfully been polarized.
Reconnect the negative terminal.
Reattach the generator end cover and bolt in place.

If this does not successfully polarize the field, it may be necessary to inspect and/or replace the brushes and/or AVR.

View and download the PDF version here.