Diagnosing a Bad alternator
Diagnosing a Bad alternator
I am pretty sure that my alternator is draining my battery (Dies overnight). However before I replace the alternator can anybody tell me how to test if it's bad. My suspicion is that its drawing curent even when the key is in the off position.
BTW I can't start my car, my starter is bad right now.
BTW I can't start my car, my starter is bad right now.
Disconnect the battery negative.
Disconnect the alternator output lead.
Meter the resistance of the output stud to the alternator case (ground) in both directions.
The initial resistance reading in each direction may be relatively low as the capacitor in teh regulator charges, but after about 5-10 seconds, the resistance should be greater than 20 megohms in either direction. If you get a resistance of 1.5 k ohms or less consistently, you may have a failing diode in the rectifier bridge.
Disconnect the alternator output lead.
Meter the resistance of the output stud to the alternator case (ground) in both directions.
The initial resistance reading in each direction may be relatively low as the capacitor in teh regulator charges, but after about 5-10 seconds, the resistance should be greater than 20 megohms in either direction. If you get a resistance of 1.5 k ohms or less consistently, you may have a failing diode in the rectifier bridge.
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