Alternator Test
- Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove "L" and "R" terminals from alternator. Connect negative battery cable and turn ignition on. Using a voltmeter, ensure battery voltage is present between terminals "L", "R" and ground. If not, an open circuit is present.
- Install an output test circuit. See Fig 1. Turn headlights on all accessories. Start engine and increase engine speed to 3000 RPM. Adjust resistance to increase load current. Ensure rated output of 60 amps is reached without voltage dropping to less than 13 volts. Turn ignition and accessories off. Disconnect test circuit.
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- Install a positive voltage drop test circuit. See Fig 2. Reconnect alternator "L" and "R" terminal. Turn headlights on. Start engine and check voltage drop. Operate engine at 3000 RPM. If voltage exceeds .5 volts, a high resistance is present on positive side of charging circuit. Turn accessories and ignition off.
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- Install a negative voltage drop test circuit. See Fig 3. Turn on accessories and headlights. Start engine and check voltage drop. Run engine at 3000 RPM. If volmeter reading is greater than .25 volt, a high resistance is present in negative side of charging circuit. Turn ignition and accessories off.
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- Install a control voltage test circuit. See Fig 4. Start engine and check regulator voltage. Run engine at 3000 RPM and note ammeter reading. When ammeter reading is between 3-5 amps, volmeter should indicate 13.7-14.5 volts. If not within specifications, regulator is defective.
Courtesy of HYUNDAI MOTOR CO.