Location of diodes in the Alternator Restart system?

[mshac]

Rick, as I study the system, it makes no sense to me why the resistor is in the circuit. If its voltage that makes the alternator restart, and more voltage is better (at least up to the alternator's rated voltage), why would we want to reduce the voltage in the circuit with a resistor???

It would be like putting a resistor in a circuit with a light bulb - the light bulb would be dimmer due to lower voltage.

A resistor may be used to prevent voltage spikes, but again, in a DC circuit with small batteries like this one, I just don't see the need.

You could simply put an alligator clip test lead on either side of the resistor to bypass it, and then test your voltage at the field when pressing the restart button. You should see an increase.

If you do this test, please let us know your findings.