Charging System: Preparation

Before starting test, make sure battery is in good condition and is fully charged. Check condition of battery cables at battery. Clean if necessary. Start engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature. Shut engine off. Connect an engine tachometer. Fully engage parking brake.

1. Determine if any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) exist. Before starting test, ensure battery is in good condition and is fully-charged. Check condition of battery cables at battery. Clean if necessary. Perform Voltage Drop Test. This will ensure clean and tight generator battery electrical connections. Be sure generator drive belt is properly tensioned.
2. A volt/amp tester equipped with both a battery load control (carbon pile rheostat) and an inductive type pickup clamp (ammeter probe) will be used for this test. When using a tester equipped with an inductive-type clamp, removal of wiring at generator will not be necessary. Start engine and allow it to reach operating temperature. Shut engine off. Turn off all electrical accessories and all vehicle lighting.
3. Connect volt/amp tester leads to battery. Be sure carbon pile rheostat control is in OPEN or OFF position before connecting leads. Also see operating instructions supplied with test equipment. Connect inductive clamp (ammeter probe). See operating instructions supplied with test equipment. If volt/amp tester is not equipped with an engine tachometer, connect a separate tachometer to engine.