Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Current Output Test

Fig. 3 Current output test connections:




Fig. 4 Alternator test specifications. 1981-85:




Fig. 5 Alternator test specifications. 1986-87:





1. With ignition switch in the Off position, disconnect battery ground cable, then disconnect battery lead from alternator output terminal.
2. Connect an ammeter set at the 0 to 100 amp scale between alternator output terminal and the disconnected battery lead.
3. Connect positive lead of voltmeter to alternator output terminal and negative lead to ground.
4. Connect suitable tachometer to engine and reconnect battery ground cable.
5. Connect a variable carbon pile regulator between battery terminals. When installing carbon pile regulator, ensure regulator is in Open or Off position.
6. Adjust carbon pile regulator and accelerate engine to the specified RPM, noting ammeter and voltmeter readings.
7. If ammeter reading is less than specified, the alternator is defective.