Can an alternator bench test good and still be bad?
The only way to know if an alternator is good or bad is to bench test it on an alternator test stand. If an alternator can produce normal voltage and current during a bench test, the problem is not the alternator but something else on the vehicle.
Can an alternator be bench tested?
Alternators have one of the highest return rates of any repair part – often because of misdiagnosis. Bench testing an alternator on a test stand should verify whether or not its output is within specifications. If the unit tests bad, your customer needs a replacement alternator.
How many volts should an alternator test at?
The voltage should read a minimum of 13 volts. A good alternator should put out between **13.5-14.5 volts. Stress test the alternator – Place a load on the alternator by turning on the headlights, the radio and the air conditioning. The voltage should remain high with these circuits on.
Can AutoZone bench test an alternator?
A worn, loose, or damaged connector can cause a massive voltage drop. If everything appears fine, the alternator should be removed and bench tested, which can be done for free at AutoZone.
Can a battery voltage test be done on an alternator?
One test is not enough if you are diagnosing a charging system problem. All too often, the alternator is condemned as the source of the problem if only battery voltage is present with the engine running. If this is the case, it only means that the alternator is not charging, but does not reveal why.
How to bench test an alternator with a drill?
My alternator has B+ , D-, W and D+ connectors and the regulator is inside. Should I connect the battery to W and D+ and measure the voltage between B+ and D- when I spin it with the drill? I have my alternator in a vice and I am ready with my volt meter, battery and drill but I am not sure how to wire it up.
Is it normal for an alternator to not charge?
Still, it’s perfectly normal for others to see the alternator not charge at all intermittently. One test is not enough if you are diagnosing a charging system problem. All too often, the alternator is condemned as the source of the problem if only battery voltage is present with the engine running.
What should the voltage drop be on an alternator?
If there is resistance in the connection, some of the voltage will bypass the resistance by flowing through the voltmeter. A reading of more than 0.2 volts means trouble. Ideally, the voltage drop across any connection should be zero or less than 0.1 volts.