Farmall Cub

not running.

Not running there should be no voltage on the A lug of the generator. It sounds like the regulator has stuck contacts.

Can I get a regulator at auto zone or other place like that or do I need to go to the dealer?

NAPA

anything special I need to ask for?

Take the old one with you.

I cant remember but NAPA # is VR 850 or VR 851 ones is top mount other mounts below gen. if I was in shop I could tell you, but just tell them where yours mount, NAPA are made in USA also. Mike

Any auto parts store should have a matching regulator in stock, USA made. If it's not in their computer - just tell the guy to get out his "Engine Management, Illustrated Parts Guide" catalog.

When mine stopped charging years ago, I found that the braided ground wire on the voltage regulator was not making good contact. Resoldered, been fine ever since. This was after a trip to the shop with the generator, it checked ok.

Picked up a regulator today. Does it need to be polarized to make it work?

The regulator does not need polarized. The generator is the only component needing polarization.

Got the new regulator on polarized the generator started it up and it charged for a very short time then started discharging. Started looking at the wiring at the regulator, the tractor was running reached down and wiggled the regulator and a spark came off the Gen terminal. Turned the tractor off and got to looking and found a clip that holds the wire to the headlight was getting against the terminal. Fixed that and everything was charging when I turned the tractor off. Hopefully it will last.

Also found when I took the regulator off that the copper wire on the back of the regulator was missing. I want to thank everyone for all the help, especially bigdog for having patience with me not giving up on me.

Rick - I am glad you found your problem. We don't give up around here. We keep plugging away as long as you're willing to stay with it.