Alternator: Testing and Inspection

SYSTEM INSPECTION
1. Verify that the battery is fully charged.
2. Verify that the drive belt tension is within the specification.





3. Turn the ignition switch to ON and verify that the generator warning light illuminates. If not, check the generator warning light and wiring harness between battery and generator warning light and generator.
4. Turn the ignition switch to START and verify that the generator warning light goes out after engine starts.
5. If the light stays on, turn off all electrical loads.
6. Measure the voltage at terminal L by using a voltmeter.

Specification:
Ignition switch ON: approximately 1 V
Idle: 13.0 - 14.0 V





7. If not as specified, replace the generator.
If normal, check short circuit in the wiring harness between terminal L and generator warning light.

ON-VEHICLE INSPECTION
1. Verify that the drive belt tension is within the specification.
2. Turn the ignition switch to START and verify that the generator turns smoothly without any noise while the engine running.











3. Measure the voltage at the terminals as shown in the table by using a voltmeter.





4. Measure the current at terminal B as shown in the table by using an ammeter.

NOTE:
^ The values are measured with the battery fully charged.
^ As the battery discharges, the current becomes greater.
^ When the measuring condition is "electrical load ON", turn all the following electrical systems on.
1) Headlight (high beam).
2) A/C (max.).
3) Brake light.
4) Cooling fan.
5) Condenser fan.

5. If not as specified, replace the generator.