Preliminary Checks

Preliminary checks to the charging system should be made regardless of the fault condition. These checks include:
1. Check battery posts and cable terminals for clean and tight connections. Clean the posts and the cables to ensure good electrical contact.
2. Check for secure connections at the alternator output, regulator, and engine ground. Also check the connection at the load distribution point (starter relay).
3. Check the alternator belt to ensure proper tension and no slip between the alternator pulley and the belt.
4. Check the fuses/fuse links to the alternator to ensure that they are not burned or damaged. This condition, resulting in an open circuit or high resistance, can cause erratic or intermittent charging system concerns.
Before performing charging system tests on the vehicle, note conditions such as: slow cranking, battery dead, top of battery wet, alternator/battery charge lamp stays on with the engine running, alternator/battery charge lamp does not illuminate with the ignition switch in RUN and the engine not running. This information will aid in isolating the part of the system causing the symptom.