What to do when you install a new alternator?
When a new alternator is installed, check the battery voltage and use a battery charger to bring the battery up to full charge before you return the vehicle to your customer. Also, start the engine and use your DVOM to check the charging output of the alternator. Don’t assume everything is working OK just because you bolted in a new alternator.
Why does my car not start with a new battery and alternator?
With a new starter, battery, and alternator (assuming you have not drained the battery attempting to start it), the starter should attempt to crank over the engine. If the starter does not make any noise when the key it turned to crank over the engine, you have an issue with the fuses, or the circuit.
Do you have to bench test an alternator before replacing it?
Another approach for reducing comebacks and unnecessary warranty returns is to ask your parts supplier to bench test your customer’s old alternator, and to bench test the new alternator before you install it. If the old alternator passes the tests, the problem is obviously not the alternator, and you’ve missed something.
What should the voltage drop be on an alternator?
Ideally, the voltage drop across any connection should be zero or less than 0.1 volts. Poor ground connections are an often-overlooked cause of low charging output and alternator failure.
What should I do if my alternator is not working?
The solution is to check your car’s manual for the particular fuse that controls the alternator and replace it. In some cars, you might also find another small fuse to the alternator’s control—usually a 15A to 20A fuse. An alternator does usually has 3 or 4 wires to it to function properly.
Can a alternator be used as a battery charger?
Even if you get in your car and rev the engine, you’re still asking your alternator to become a battery charger–something is isn’t designed to do for any length of time. This is a case where being a good friend can end up costing you hundreds of dollars. You could try leaving your engine off and just jumping with your battery alone.
Why does my alternator cut off while driving?
I just had the alternator replaced, but my car cuts off while driving. If your vehicle is losing battery voltage (i.e. your battery light is on) the problem may be your battery. You have a new alternator, so if your battery is bad, it won’t hold the charge from the alternator.
How do you install a new alternator in a car?
Install the new alternator, making sure that it fits properly and aligns with the existing bolt holes, by reversing the steps in the disassembly procedure. Some alternators will have a transverse bolt that allows you to move the alternator fore-and-aft in the bracket to adjust belt tension.