How can I tell if my alternator is weak?
Before you test your alternator, here are some signs that your alternator might be weak: Your battery light is illuminated on the dashboard. Your engine is cranking slowly or won’t crank at all. The battery, headlights, and interior lights seem weak. The alternator is making rumbling or squeaking sounds.
What should I do if my alternator does not pass the test?
Another approach for reducing comebacks and unnecessary warranty returns is to ask your parts supplier to bench test your customer’s old alternator and bench test the new alternator before installing it. If the old alternator passes the tests, the problem is not the alternator, and you’ve missed something.
Where does the alternator drive belt drive the engine?
The ease of gaining access to the brushes indicates the potential for DIY brush changing. This is often very successful, but if the slip rings are worn the brushes might suffer very rapid wear. Always try to inspect the slip rings when changing brushes. The alternator drive belt drives the alternator from the engine crankshaft.
What are the voltage regulators on a Lucas alternator?
These are typical of the internal voltage regulators found on the LUCAS ACR series of alternators. Do not take any notice of the number or colours of the wires. These vary from two to about six. If you are going to do anything with these regulators (like disconnect some of the wires to get at the brushes) DRAW A DIAGRAM first.
How to know if your alternator is working properly?
1 Check the drive belt or serpentine belt. Look for signs of wear or damage like cuts, shiny spots or missing chunks under the belt. 2 Also, check the belt tensioner for proper operation and damage. It should rotate freely. 3 Make sure the alternator is properly mounted. 4 Check the alternator for noises.
What to use to clean car belt and pulleys?
As a result, the belt now makes a horrid squealing sound while the engine is running (at all RPMs). Are there any tips to cleaning belts and pulleys? I’ve read using comet works, but I’ve also read pulling the belt off and cleaning it and the pulleys with carburetor cleaner and a nylon brush works. Any advice?
What causes an alternator to go over base voltage?
If you are getting more than 2 volts above base voltage, most likely your alternator is over-charging the battery or the battery is faulty. Other potential problems are a faulty voltage regulator or a problem in the charging system wiring.