Alternator: Testing and Inspection
Generator Warning Light1. Verify that the battery is fully charged.
- Charge if necessary.
2. Verify that the drive belt deflection/tension is within the specification.
- Adjust if necessary.
3. Turn the ignition switch to ON and verify that the generator warning light comes on.
- If not, inspect the generator warning light and wiring harnesses between the battery and generator warning light and between the battery and generator terminal L.
4. Turn the ignition switch to START and verify that the generator warning light goes out after engine starts.
- If not, inspect the generator.
Generator Voltage
1. Verify that the battery is fully charged.
- Charge if necessary.
2. Verify that the drive belt deflection/tension is within the specification.
- Adjust if necessary.
3. Turn off all electrical loads.
4. Turn the ignition switch to START and verify that the generator turns smoothly without any noise while the engine is running.
Standard Voltage:
5. Measure the voltage at the terminals shown in the table.
- If not as specified, disassemble and inspect the generator.
Current
1. Verify that the battery is fully charged.
- Charge if necessary.
2. Verify that the drive belt deflection/tension is within the specification.
- Adjust if necessary.
3. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
4. Connect a circuit tester, capable of reading 120 A or over, between generator terminal B and the wiring harness.
5. Connect the negative battery cable.
6. Turn all electrical loads off.
7. Start the engine and increase the engine speed to 2,000 - 2,500 rpm.
8. Turn the following electrical loads on and verify that the current reading increases.
1. Headlights
2. Blower motor
3. Rear window defroster
- If generator terminal B current will not increase, disassemble and inspect the generator.
NOTE: Current required for generating power varies with electrical loads applied.
Standard current (Reference)
Measuring conditions:
Room temperature: 20 °C {68 °F}
Voltage: 13.5 V
Engine hot