'74 CJ5 charging issues

Hey everyone. I have a '74 CJ5. She needs a bit of work, so I'm starting out with some of the basics based off of how she is driving. I already know that I need to drop the gas tank, as I am getting blockages periodically before the fuel filter. But here is one that I need some help with: I do not think that the electrical system is charging properly. The battery has been replaced, the alternator and regulator have also been replaced, but after driving for about 30 minutes, there is not any charge left on the battery. Someone had said that the voltmeter needed to be in place in order for the system to charge properly. Unfortunately this is one of the items that was not in place when I got her.
Any thoughts?

 

Welcome @buffalo926 volt meter is an essential gauge to monitor the charging system but in general not needed to run or charge. However "Unfortunately this is one of the items that was not in place when I got her", if the volt meter is part of the electrical harness it's disconnected state could be a problem. Getting the battery/starter/alternator checked free at most auto parts stores could identify whether your charging system is functioning properly. If the volt meter is on the dash inspect the wires for clues.

 

Your fuel flow issues could be due to fuel line cracks due to age. After confirming that the alternator is good, consider the external voltage regulator as that could be an issue also.

 

So I dropped the fuel tank today. It was clean. The filter on the fuel line was clean.
There is a 2nd line that goes up to the engine compartment to some kind of cylindrical device, and then from there a line goes to the side of the carburetor. What is this cylindrical device and is it serviceable?

 

That 2nd line goes into the fuel vapor storage cannister, this is for fuel tank venting. There is another hose that goes from the carb fuel bowl to the cannister also. A vacuum hose goes from carb to the cannister to control it. A Jeep CJ repair manual will show you how it is laid out.

 

Thank you

 

So the alternator checks out good. But when installed in the jeep, I am not getting any voltage on any of the posts, with and without the regulator connected. What am I missing here?

 

It has been many years since I have messed with an external regulator. I do recall sparking a wire to get the current going in the correct direction after an installation. I do recall hearing about the voltmeter being part of the current flow in that vehicle. I would suggest a bit of research on how the older systems operate.