Tools Required
J 23600-B Belt Tension
Gauge
Noise from a generator may be caused by a loose drive pulley, loose
mounting bolts, worn or dirty bearings, defective diode, or a defective stator.
A high frequency whine or magnetic noise may be heard at full output. This
is a normal condition.
Perform an output test in order to help distinguish bearing noise from
the magnetic noise, also called a whine. Refer to Generator Not Operating Properly
.
A shorted bridge diode will reduce output be 1/3 of the rating and have a
growling noise when at high load. It is also helpful to listen to the generator
with a moderate load (engine cooling fans or headlights ON) in order to determine
if there is a bearing or magnetic noise.
In order to avoid damage to the electrical equipment, observe the following
precautions:
| • | Do not reverse the connections to the generator. |
| • | Do not short across or ground any of the terminals in the charging
circuit except as directed by the service manual. |
| • | Do not apply the battery voltage directly to the regulator L terminal
for testing. A 400 - 500 ohm resistor must be used. |
| • | Never disconnect the battery cables from the output terminal or
the battery while the generator is operating. |
| • | When connecting a charger or booster battery to the car battery,
refer to
Battery Charging
. |
Trouble in the charging system can be detected by the following conditions:
| • | The AMP indicator does not light with the ignition switch in the
ON position before the engine start, or does not go out after the engine start.
The driver information center displays Check Charging System. |
| • | Service Engine Soon light comes ON. |
| • | An undercharged battery as evidenced by slow cranking or a dark
hydrometer. Refer to Battery Test Diagnosis
. |
| • | An overcharged batter as evidenced by spewing of electrolyte from
the vents. |
If an undercharged or overcharged battery condition occurs, the following
procedure may be used to diagnose the charging system:
- Visually inspect the accessory drive belt for damage or looseness.
- Use the J 23600-B
in order to check for proper belt tension.
- Inspect the charging circuit electrical connections for damage
or looseness.
- Perform the Generator Electrical Test. Refer to Generator Not Operating Properly
.
