Where can I test my alternator for free?
Where can I test my alternator for free?
auto parts stores
Many auto parts stores will test alternators, starters and batteries for free, though you will have to remove the alternator to have it tested at an auto parts store.
When do you need to bench test an alternator?
Bench testing an alternator on a test stand should verify whether or not its output is within specifications. If the unit tests bad, your customer needs a replacement alternator. But if the unit tests good, the problem is something else such as a bad voltage regulator, PCM or wiring harness.
Can you test an alternator on a boat?
What amazes me is why electrical engineers and engineers don’t test alternators on the boat where sometimes the fault lies in other areas than the alternator itself . Before you do that, you need to excite it otherwise it won’t charge by wiring a bulb across the warning light terminal.
What’s the connection from W to D on an alternator?
The proposed connection from W to the battery “-” and D+ to the battery “+” was for intended for the rotating coil excitation current. Perhaps I also need to connect D- to the battery “-” to bias the diodes.
Why do alternators have a high return rate?
Today’s computer-controlled charging systems tailor the charging rate not only to the electrical demands on the battery and alternator, but also to changing driving conditions. That makes diagnosis much more difficult when something goes wrong. Alternators have one of the highest return rates of any repair part – often because of misdiagnosis.
Bench testing an alternator on a test stand should verify whether or not its output is within specifications. If the unit tests bad, your customer needs a replacement alternator. But if the unit tests good, the problem is something else such as a bad voltage regulator, PCM or wiring harness.
What amazes me is why electrical engineers and engineers don’t test alternators on the boat where sometimes the fault lies in other areas than the alternator itself . Before you do that, you need to excite it otherwise it won’t charge by wiring a bulb across the warning light terminal.
The proposed connection from W to the battery “-” and D+ to the battery “+” was for intended for the rotating coil excitation current. Perhaps I also need to connect D- to the battery “-” to bias the diodes.
Today’s computer-controlled charging systems tailor the charging rate not only to the electrical demands on the battery and alternator, but also to changing driving conditions. That makes diagnosis much more difficult when something goes wrong. Alternators have one of the highest return rates of any repair part – often because of misdiagnosis.
