FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

No-Load Test

Charging System Schematic:





Charging System Tests
When performing charging system tests, turn OFF all lamps and electrical components. Place transmission in NEUTRAL and apply parking brake.

CAUTION: Do not make jumper wire connections except as directed. To do so may damage regulator.

NOTE: Battery posts and cable clamps must be clean and tight to ensure accurate meter indications.

No-Load Test
1. Connect a tachometer to engine.
2. Start engine and increase speed to approximately 1,500 rpm. With NO other electrical load (foot off brake pedal and doors closed), voltmeter pointer should move upward (increase) but not more than 2.5 volts above base voltage.

NOTE: The reading should be taken when voltmeter pointer stops rising. It may take a few minutes to reach this point. If voltage increases to proper level, perform Load Test. If the pointer continues to rise, perform the Over Voltage Tests. If the voltage does NOT rise to proper level, perform Under Voltage Tests.