Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B&S 18HP Vanguard-No charging, yardman lawn tractor, regulator rectifier

Question
Thanks in advance for your time. I have a 1994 B&S (MOD#350447), 18HP, 16AMP regulated charging system, factory installed in a Yardman Lawn Tractor. I would like to know if it's possible to prove the Regulator-Rectifier (P/N 394890, 691185)With a multimeter. All the indications are that the regulator is bad IE: 30 VAC at stator leads at full throttle, O AMPS Across shunt/ampmeter with regulator output jumpered to battery positive terminal, 1 1/2 volts short of battery voltage at red regulator wire with ignition on. Before I shell out the big bucks for a new regulator I'd feel better if I could Ohm out the regulator itself but I don't know what kind of numbers I'm looking for on the leads. Thanks for any help you might provide in this regard,
Steve

Answer
I have not seen any resistance specs for the Briggs regulators.

The method you used to troubleshoot the system is the same as the Briggs manual...check input from alternator and then check the output.  Current is the best indicator but voltage is also an acceptable test.

How is the battery?  Have you had it load tested?  When was it last replaced?  Have you disconnected and cleaned the battery terminal posts and cable ends with a wire brush?

Let me know.
Eric