Generator On-Vehicle Tests

CAUTION
^ Do not make jumper wire connections except as directed. To do so may damage Generator (GEN).
^ Do not allow any metal object to come in contact with the housing and internal diode cooling fins with key on or off or short circuit will result and bum out the diodes.

NOTE
^ Battery terminals and cable clamps must be clean and tight for accurate meter indications.
^ Proceed to the Alternator, Regulator, Battery and Starter Tester (ARBST) procedure manual for complete directions on checking out the charging system.

Diagnosis is required before actual repair can be made to the electrical system. Even where an obvious condition makes installation of a new component necessary, find out why the component failed. When a condition is diagnosed correctly, unnecessary repair is prevented, the vehicle down time will be decreased, and the condition will be corrected the first time.

The use of ARBST tester is suggested to check the charging system.

Turn off all lamps and electrical components when performing charging system tests. Place transmission in NEUTRAL and apply the parking brake.

Load Test
1. Switch the ARBST to the voltmeter function.
2. Connect the voltmeter positive lead to the generator B+ terminal and the negative lead to ground.
3. Turn all electrical accessories off.
4. With the engine running at 2000 rpm, check the generator output voltage. The voltage should be between 13.0 and 15.0 volts. If not, Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures for diagnostic procedures.