If there is more than 0.1 volt (50-100mV, depending on the vehicle) of
AC ripple, then the alternator is most likely bad. Be sure that the meter
you are using blocks DC voltage while in the AC mode. Check the
battery voltage with the engine is not running and see if the meter reads
voltage while in the AC mode.Sep 19, 2019
What does excessive ripple mean on a charging test?
bad alternator
A little ripple is acceptable ,as the battery itself will dampen it. But when
a diode fails Excessive Ripple ( AC current ) will find its way into the
vehicle's ( DC ) power supply. It could mean a bad alternator, a bad
connection . Also check the Voltage Regulator and for a slipping
belt.Nov 5, 2022
What is an acceptable ripple voltage?
Acceptable ripple voltage is about 100mV peak to peak. Majority of good
power supplies have ripple and noise figures of better than 10mV rms,
while SMPS figures of 50mV or less are possible, however, higher
current supplies are likely to have slightly higher values.
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