Zener Diode + Earth

[A10 JWO]

Everyone seems to be out of stock of these important items, even Draganfly don't seem to hold out any hope. Has anyone on here know different please. Thank you.

[Greybeard]

RS, (Radio Spares) list 5743 Zener Diodes. Wouldn't they have something suitable?
You will probably have to build it onto a heat sink of some kind.

[Triton Thrasher]

They’re not important items if you use something else.

[beezermacc]

What do you need it for?

[A10 JWO]

It's for a 500 Triumph 1963. I was given a Diode today, how do I test it with a basic Fluke Meter please. Just fitted a new Lucas alternator and want to make sure all is well. Thanks.

[chaterlea25]

Hi A10 JWO,
Testing with a Fluke it will /should behave just like a normal diode, OL when connected one way and showing 0.4- 0.6v
the other
To test properly you need a variable DC supply
Fit it to the bike and measure the battery voltage with the engine running,  on revving the engine the voltage should not exceed 14.7v
Old Zener's go dodgy and the voltage threshold rises with age
A modern rectifier /regulator is a better option in this day and age

John

[Rex]

Agreed, though if you want to use a new Zener why not just convert the bike to -ve earth?

[A10 JWO]

So if I have 15 volts at the battery with the engine running, would it be the solid state rectifier at fault or the Zener not doing it's job, thanks.

[chaterlea25]

Hi A10 JWO,

Zener not doing it's job

A too high voltage will harm the battery and electronic ignition unit if fitted

John