Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

ON-VEHICLE INSPECTION

CAUTION:
- Check that the battery cables are connected to the correct terminals.
- Disconnect the battery cables when the battery is given a quick charge.
- Never disconnect the battery while the engine is running.

CHECK BATTERY VOLTAGE
1. If 20 minutes have not passed since the engine was stopped, turn the ignition switch ON and turn on the electrical system (headlamp, blower motor, rear defogger etc.) for 60 seconds to remove the surface charge.
2. Turn the ignition switch OFF and turn off the electrical systems.
3. Measure the battery voltage between the negative (-) and positive (+) terminals of the battery.

Standard voltage : 12.5 - 12.9 V at 20 °C (68 °F)

If the voltage is less than specification, charge the battery.

CHECK THE BATTERY TERMINALS AND FUSES
1. Check that the battery terminals are not loose or corroded.
2. Check the fuses for continuity.

INSPECT DRIVE BELT




1. Visually check the belt for excessive wear, frayed cords etc. If any defect has been found, replace the drive belt.

NOTE: Cracks on the rib side of a belt are considered acceptable. If the belt has chunks missing from the ribs, it should be replaced.

Deflection:

2. Measure the drive belt tension and adjust it. Apply a force of 98 N (10 kg, 22 lb), and measure the deflection between the generator and the water pump pulley.




If the belt tension is not as specified, adjust it.

NOTE:
- "New belt" refers to a belt which has been used less than 5 minutes on a running engine.
- "Used belt" refers to a belt which has been used on a running engine for 5 minutes or more.
- After installing a belt, check that it fits properly in the ribbed grooves.
- Check with your hand to confirm that the belt has not slipped out of the groove on the bottom of the pulley.
- After installing a new belt, run the engine for about 5 minutes and recheck the belt tension.

VISUALLY CHECK GENERATOR WIRING AND LISTEN FOR ABNORMAL NOISES
1. Check that the wiring is in good condition.
2. Check that there is no abnormal noise from the generator while the engine is running.

CHECK DISCHARGE WARNING LIGHT CIRCUIT
1. Warm up the engine and then turn it off.
2. Turn off all accessories.
3. Turn the ignition switch "ON". Check that the discharge warning light is lit.
4. Start the engine. Check that the light is lit. If the light does not go off as specified, troubleshoot the discharge light circuit.