Dead AC regulator

[Hans]

A dead AC regulator should show no continuity..... Correct?

[fj1200]

Test should be done on the diode test setting.  (checked u tube)

The stator should be done on ohms setting.

[Theo]

I don't like to make armchair diagnoses but, if you have no continuity through the regulator and are burning headlamp bulbs, it seems a fair assumption that the regulator has failed.
However, I can't be sure without doing an actual circuit test and an electrical diagram would be helpful.
T.

[Hans]

I think I have an slight understanding of how it works now.  The AC regulator is not in series blocking current to limit voltage, it's in parallel to dump current to limit voltage.  So if it burnt and has no continuity, the full beans from the lighting coil goes through the headlamp bulb.  Ted??  It measured 20 volts at idle and 60 with a bit of RPM on.  The regulator shows no continuity tested both ways.  New one on order.

[Theo]

Sounds exactly right to me Hans.  A new regulator should fix it. I assume you've verified all connections including ground.
T

[Hans]

New regulator came in,  and still had same problem.  So a little more poking around I found that the connection that the regulator grounded was not. .. not a ground.   I found another good ground and the voltage stabilized nicely.   No more blown light bulbs and a nice bright headlight.   The original regulator was toast though.