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6 Common Service Procedures
Battery Service
CHARGING SYSTEM – CHECK
1. If a malfunction occurs in the charging circuit, do not
immediately assume that the alternator is causing the
problem. First check the following items:
A. The battery cables where they connect to the
battery. Make sure the connections are clean and
tight.
B. The battery electrolyte specific gravity. If it is low,
charge the battery.
C. Check the external alternator wiring and
connections. They must be in good condition.
D. Check the drive belt condition and tension (see
Section 1).
E. Make sure the alternator mounting bolts are tight.
F. Run the engine and check the alternator for
abnormal noise (may be caused by a loose drive
pulley, loose mounting bolts, worn or dirty
bearings, defective diode or defective stator).
2. Using a voltmeter, check the battery voltage with the
engine off. It should be approximately 12 volts.
3. Start the engine and check the battery voltage again.
It should now be approximately 14 to 15 volts.
ALTERNATOR – REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
Refer to engine manufacturers instructions for service
procedures.
NOTE: These units are NOT serviceable. In the event
the alternator becomes defective, exchange the alterna-
tor for a new or rebuilt part at your local engine manufac-
turer parts store or dealership parts department.
Charging System
GENERAL INFORMATION AND PRECAUTIONS
The purpose of the voltage regulator is to limit the
alternator voltage to a preset value. This prevents power
surges, circuit overloads, etc., during peak voltage
output.
The charging system does not ordinarily require periodic
maintenance. The drive belts, electrical wiring and
connections should, however, be inspected at the
intervals suggested in Section 2 MAINTENANCE. Take
extreme care when making circuit connections to a
vehicle equipped with an alternator and note the
following. When making connections to the alternator
from a battery, always match correct polarity. Before
using arc welding equipment to repair any part of the
vehicle, disconnect the wires from the alternator and the
battery terminal. Never start the engine with a battery
charger connected. Always disconnect both battery leads
before using a battery charger.
If the lamp stays on or comes on once the engine is
running, a charging system problem has occurred. Refer
to the engine manufacturer's instructions for the proper
diagnosis procedure for each type of alternator.
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