Voltage Regulator Questions

[CWizard]

If there's someone who understands how voltage regulators work, in particular the external regulators used with 4 wire alternators in 60's, 70's Fords and many Cobras (for example, Motorcraft GR-540B, Ford F0PZ-10316-A), I'd sure appreciate some help. I'm chasing an overcharging issue and trying to understand how the regulator senses and responds to system voltage. Here's what I think happens. The regulator "A" terminal is system voltage input used to either to turn the alternator on or off by changing the current to the field coil. This terminal is connected via the ignition switch to the positive battery terminal. If the battery voltage goes above an upper setpoint (about 14.7v), the regulator tries to reduce alternator output; if it goes below the lower setpoint (13.8v), it tries to increase alternator output. Is this right?
Thanks!

[PANAVIA]

take a peek at page 11 here ;

http://static.summitracing.com/globa...0526manual.pdf

this should help you -

[patrickt]

Look halfway down this page of this thread: First Drive today - speedo and electrically issues / help? and you'll see the pages I posted from the old manuals that should explain it to you.

[CWizard]

Thanks guys! I've resolved the overcharging issue - it was a bad out of the box voltage regulator. And in the process, I've learned more than I ever thought possible about the charging system! Thanks again.