Do a full-field test. This basically shorts the voltage regulator to full charge, and the output will tell you if the alternator is up to snuff.
alternator test / replace ???
how can I test mine at home first of all ?
if I need to replace what are the options ? Eventually I'll add a stereo system with an amp on 4 three way speakers, and maybe a small sub woofer and small amp on that.
I have an Optima red top battery how long should it stayed charged with the car sitting with the positive cable removed ?
if I need to replace what are the options ? Eventually I'll add a stereo system with an amp on 4 three way speakers, and maybe a small sub woofer and small amp on that.
I have an Optima red top battery how long should it stayed charged with the car sitting with the positive cable removed ?
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How do I do that ?? Is it something I can do at home ?Do a full-field test. This basically shorts the voltage regulator to full charge, and the output will tell you if the alternator is up to snuff.
AGM (Absorbed glass mat) batteries such as the Optima will tend to discharge at a very slow rate, maybe .1v per month as opposed to a typical flooded battery which may discharge at .5v or more per month.how can I test mine at home first of all ?
A full-field test will tell you if the alternator is putting out rated voltage but not rated amperage. A charging system tester will a carbon-pile load to check output. You can remove your alternator and take it to a major retailer like AutoZone and they will test it for no charge.
if I need to replace what are the options ? Eventually I'll add a stereo system with an amp on 4 three way speakers, and maybe a small sub woofer and small amp on that.
There are a multitude of options out there from the Ford 2G-cased with 100a output to 200a 4g-series to 300+a FAD-series. The one that meets the maximum demands of your electrical system plus a small reserve IMHO would be best.
I have an Optima red top battery how long should it stayed charged with the car sitting with the positive cable removed ?
thanks guys. Any way to test the alternator on the car at home ?
If not I guess I can remove it and go have it tested. I just wonder what other alternator it would be better to replace it with if it's bad. Seems like I remember these from the parts store go out frequently.
If not I guess I can remove it and go have it tested. I just wonder what other alternator it would be better to replace it with if it's bad. Seems like I remember these from the parts store go out frequently.
the alt should put out approx 13.8 volts to the battery when running , if its bad do the 3G ford Alt conversion
Go out and get a multimeter, like the one below at Harbor Freight tools. Check the battery with the car off. Should be between 12 to 13 volts. Then start the car, and test again. If it now reads more, like 14volts, then your alternator is charging the battery. If its the same, check to make sure the wiring is not at fault. To do that, put the positive lead of the multimeter to the positive side of the alternator. Put the black/ground wire of the multimeter to the block, or a ground somewhere on the car. If the alternator does not read any better than the battery, then its bad. If its reading higher, like 14 volts or so, then it could be the wires or voltage regulator. There are alot of videos on the internet that shows this.
Digital Multimeter - Save on this 7 Function Digital Multimeter
Digital Multimeter - Save on this 7 Function Digital Multimeter
old school test , with car running disconnect battery .
if engine dies alt is not putting enough voltage out = bad
if engine stays running alt is good .
if engine dies alt is not putting enough voltage out = bad
if engine stays running alt is good .
I'm old school, but it's not alway's good. That worked well on generators. With alternators, removing a battery lead can send voltage spikes over 100v which play havoc with electronics. I don't advise that anymore.
i just threw in a Powermaster retro unit from summit. made is US and resembles original style
what is the benefit of that alternator ?the alt should put out approx 13.8 volts to the battery when running , if its bad do the 3G ford Alt conversion
what is the benefit of that alternator ?i just threw in a Powermaster retro unit from summit. made is US and resembles original style
A. Do a search on 3G conversion, parts are readily available from any parts store.what is the benefit of that alternator ?
what is the benefit of that alternator ?
B. Isn't that a GM alternator?
i just did the 3g conversion few days ago. very simple, very nice.
i bought a 130amp alternator from alternatorpros.com it was $90 and free shipping. got it in 2 days time. then i also ordered a 2g to 3g wire harness from mustangs unlimited. $15
for $105 including shipping, went from 80amps to 130amps and a much safer alternator.
i bought a 130amp alternator from alternatorpros.com it was $90 and free shipping. got it in 2 days time. then i also ordered a 2g to 3g wire harness from mustangs unlimited. $15
for $105 including shipping, went from 80amps to 130amps and a much safer alternator.
1 - 13 of 13 Posts
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