Verify the following conditions before performing the diagnostic procedures on the vehicle:
| • | The system wiring is in the proper condition. |
| • | The generator belt is not slipping. |
| • | The battery must be fully charged for a valid test of the charging system. |
| Refer to Charging System Check for detailed diagnosis and repair. |
Notice: To avoid damaging the vehicle's electrical system, observe the following
precautions:
• Do not polarize the generator. • Do not short across or ground any of the terminals in the charging
circuit, except as specifically instructed herein. • NEVER operate the generator with the output terminal open-circuited. • Make sure the generator and battery have the same ground polarity. • When a connecting charger or booster battery to the vehicle's
battery, connect the negative to negative and the positive to positive.
Faulty operation of the charging system will appear as one or more of the following conditions:
| • | Unusual operation of the charging indicator lamp on vehicles without gauges |
| • | An undercharged battery |
| Slow cranking or a dark battery hydrometer indicates an undercharged battery. Refer to Battery Is Undercharged or Overcharged . |
| • | An overcharged battery |
| Excessive gassing of electrolyte from the battery vents indicates an overcharged battery. Refer to Battery Is Undercharged or Overcharged . |
Charging System Indicator Lamp Operation
Step | Action | Value(s) | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
Do not start the engine. Does the indicator lamp turn ON? | -- | System OK | |
2 |
Does the indicator lamp turn OFF? | -- | System OK | |
3 | Perform the Charging System Check in order to identify the malfunction. Refer to Charging System Check . Perform any necessary repairs. Is the system operating properly? | -- | System OK | -- |
