Charging System: Testing and Inspection
Charging System Check1. Check battery is in good condition, with an open circuit voltage of at least 12.6 V Recharge or substitute battery to carry out test
2. Check drive belt condition.
3. Check battery connections are clean and tight.
4. Check generator connections are clean and tight.
5. Ensure there is no drain on battery from, for example, interior, under bonnet [hood] or door edge lamps.
Generator Test
Following instructions refer to use of suitable test equipment using a carbon pile rheostat.
6. Connect test equipment referring to manufacturer's instructions.
7. Start engine and run at 3000 rev/min without accessory load.
8. Rotate carbon pile load control to achieve greatest output (amps) without allowing voltage to fall below 12.0 V. A reading in amps, of generator output, minus 10% to allow for EFI and Ignition loss, should be obtained.
9. Run engine at 3000 rev/min, switch selector to regulator test, read voltmeter. A reading of 13.6 to 14.4 V should be obtained.
10. Switch selector to diode/stator test, switch on headlamps to load generator. Raise engine speed to 3000 rev/min, read voltmeter, needle must be within 'OK' range.
Testing In Position
Circuit Testing:
1. Connect a low range voltmeter between generator terminal marked B+ and positive terminal of battery.
2. Switch on headlamps, start engine. Run engine at approximately 3000 rev/min. Note voltmeter reading.
Circuit Testing:
3. Transfer voltmeter connections to frame of generator and negative terminal of battery, and again note voltmeter reading.
4. If reading exceeds 0.5 volt on positive side or 0.25 volt on negative side, there is a high resistance in charging circuit which must be traced and remedied.