On 11/12/04 11:34 AM, "Scott W." <smorewhisky@YAHOO.COM> wrote:

> For some reason I can't get to the archives for the
> past couple days, so...
> Can anyone tell me how I can check to make sure my
> alternator is charging my battery? My battery went
> dead on me last week with no warning, so I want to
> make sure my alterntor is working properly, thanks for
> any help here.
> Scott W.
> 85 westfalia
> 
> 
A simple check is with a voltmeter at the battery.

Check the voltage at the lead terminals and out on the cables.
A good fully charged battery should read 12.3 to 12.6v with nor difference
in readings from being on the terminals directly or out on the connectors.
If there is a variance pull connectors and clean.

Start the engine and take the reading again with the engine running.
You should now see 13.5 or higher depending on age, wiring, size of
alternator.  13.5 is the preferred voltage that the battery should see in
most applications.  However corrosion at connecting points and grounds can
cause drops.

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jimt
Planned insanity is best.
Remember that sanity is optional.
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