Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1956 Studebaker, studebaker pickup, voltage regulators

Question
I have a 56 Studebaker pickup that I am trying to get running again.  I took it to a local mechanic who has been working on it for a year.  He said was ready so I picked it up and drove around the parking lot, only to have it die.  I jumped the battery and drove back to his lot.  He tested everything and said it was the generator.  He got it rebuilt, but it still isn't charging the battery, so he is going to replace the diode and see if that helps.  Any advice on what else could be the problem?

Thanks for your help
Josh


Answer
Hi Josh:

Your problem could be a number of possible issues. Your mechanic is taking the RIGHT next step. Also have him look at the voltage regulator. On 12-volt generator systems, the voltage regulators are very troublesome. Such as, erratic charging and the worst case, points will stick, fusing the wiring into a very hot glow plug. I seen this happen with two Studebakers.
If a diode fails, a dead short can also occur. Because this happens VERY quickly, even a  battery cut-off switch will not prevent major damage. The best solution I am aware of, is to install a circuit breaker on the battery terminal of the voltage regulator. Ask NAPA for an Ecklin circuit breaker #CB 6379 (50 amp). The breaker will have two posts. Bolt one to the BATTERY post of the regulator, the other to the wire to that post. Hope this helps. Good Luck!