35hp Vanguard wrecks battery

[360canam]

Good morning,

I have a 35hp Vanguard Briggs & Stratton on a grain auger that keeps wrecking batteries. I have put 2 new batteries on the unit and it drains then so they cant hold a charge again. The auger has a powered clutch to engage the auger.

Do I have a bad regulator?

 

[cpurvis]

Maybe.

Do you have a voltmeter? Check the voltage at the battery with the engine running at full speed and auger engaged. Should be higher than 12.7 but less than 14.5 or so. If it's in the range, the regulator is working.

 

[StarTech]

Also is the clutch you mention electrical? if so it could be partially shorted.

 

[360canam]

Also is the clutch you mention electrical? if so it could be partially shorted.

Yes, the clutch is electric. I will do some volt test and see

Thanks!

 

[mechanic mark]

Post model xxxxxx, type xxxx, trim xx & code xxxxxxxx numbers from engine tag or sticker, alternator under flywheel may not be charging battery

https://www.google.com/search?q=HOW+TO+TEST+ALTERNATOR+FOR+CHARGING+ON+B%26S+ENGINE&oq=HOW+TO+TEST+ALTERNATOR+FOR+CHARGING+ON+B%26S+ENGINE&aqs=chrome..69i57j33.100617j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

Absolutely, a loose ground strap or cable will do it every time & is overlooked most of the time. Well done! That is why "hands on" approach works best making sure every item is tight & secure.

 

[360canam]

I found that I had a poor factory ground on the electric clutch. I have hooked up a volt meter on the battery and it hasnt drained down in the last 24 hours