Can alternator overcharge battery?
The alternator relies on the voltage regulator to know how much electricity it needs to generate; if the voltage regulator is broken, the alternator will most likely generate too much electricity, thus overcharging the battery. Poor battery conditions, on the other hand, can break healthy alternators as well.
What is the alternator on a Chevy Camaro?
The alternator is the central power unit of your car’s charging system. This article will show you how to install a new one. This article applies to the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird (1990-2002).
How do you connect a new alternator to a car battery?
Move the new alternator into position. Connect the exciter wire, then thread in the bolts by hand. Tighten the bolts down and then reconnect the wires on the back of the alternator. Slip the serpentine belt over the alternator pulley, then tighten the tensioning bolt. Reconnect the battery and start the car.
Can a bad car battery cause an alternator to not charge?
In theory a car can run only with the alternator charge, but this can cause heavy voltage spikes and other strange symptoms so this means that a bad car battery can cause an alternator to not charge also. Cars are increasingly coming with modern electronics.
How can I tell if I have an alternator problem?
To differentiate an alternator problem from the battery, you will need to use a voltmeter to check for voltage. First, turn off the engine and check the battery voltage. A fully charged battery should have a reading of 12.65 volts. Next, turn on the engine and recheck the voltage. You should have a reading of 13.5 to 14.5 volts.
What does it mean when your alternator is not charging?
If the alternator is not charging the battery, you will have a red “ALT” or “charge” sign on your dashboard. This means that your battery is no longer being supplemented for power by the alternator. You will need to recheck the wiring because the light could also be faulty.
What should I do if my alternator fails?
If the battery is fairly new you will need to start the engine by jump starting or charging the battery using a battery charger. Once the engine is running test the alternator in the charging system. If the alternator fails, replace it with a new or rebuilt unit and re-test system, if the alternator tests ok proceed to the next step.
How long does an alternator and battery last?
As a battery ages it loses its ability to hold a charge, as a rule of thumb a battery will last about three to four years. If the battery is fairly new you will need to start the engine by jump starting or charging the battery using a battery charger. Once the engine is running test the alternator in the charging system.
What causes a battery light to come on after an alternator is installed?
The most common is, again, a loose connection either with the control plug (aka “relay” plug-in), charging line connection, or the ground. The other is a blown fuse or defective connector or relay, which could have been broken or shorted when the alternator was installed or on the first start-up after its installation.