Tips on Repairing a Webster Magneto

a. Substitute a new magnet and test for voltage. If it still remains low, the trouble must be in the coils, and the original magnet should be replaced.
b. Remove the coils and replace with a new pair, first warming them in an oven to make them pliable. NOTE: Before removing the old coils, observe carefully the relation of the lead wires, and install the new coils the same way. Otherwise the two coils may oppose each other and no current result. If, after remagnetizing, the voltmeter shows no indication at all, observe the following:

Remove top cover, and examine the wires which are fastened to the terminal block, making sure they are securely fastened. Also see the opposite end of the coil is securely fastened under the ground screw. This is under the end plate on the opposite side from the lead wire. Test for voltage with the top cover off, to determine if it shorted the terminal.

There may be an open circuit in the coils. Light these through, with a 110-volt test lamp. If open, replace them.

Having put the magneto in condition and its output being correct, it should receive its final check for position of inductor. Remove one of the end plates and examine carefully to see that it has been installed properly as a right or left hand magneto, as the case may be. (See blue prints furnished to all service stations, covering installation of the inductor on right and left hand magnetos.) The inductor shafts have a chisel mark directly across one end, and this end is placed on lead wire side for a right hand magneto, and on opposite side for a left hand magneto. If the spring arm and springs are in place, the inductor installation can be checked by rotating it slightly in the direction it will be moved by the push rod and this should turn the wide faces of the inductor into line with the pole pieces which carry the coils.

When these points have been checked the magneto should be reassembled and remagnetized. (See instructions following regarding magnetizing.) It should also again be tested on the A.C. voltmeter to make sure that it shows the minimum voltage as given on voltage chart.

Magnetizing Webster Magnetos
Webster magnetos must be magnetized when they are completely assembled. This requires a magnetizer with adjustable blocks or adapters so they can be adjusted to take the varying widths of Webster magnetos. An ordinary magnetizer can be equipped with such adapters. Wherever possible, service stations should use 110 volt D.C. current. When storage battery current is used, care must be taken that the battery is kept fully charged. In magnetizing Webster magnetos it is very necessary to check the magneto with a compass and determine the north and south pole. Do the same for the magnetizer and place the north pole of the magneto on the south pole of the magnetizer. This will remagnetize the magnet in its original direction, which is very essential. On many of the smaller inexpensive magnetizers, you will find the magneto will become completely demagnetized if it is placed on the magnetizer in the wrong polarity. Should this happen it will be necessary to remove the magnets from the magneto and wipe the magnets.