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Subject:Re: Checking output of alternator.
From:Dennis Jowell
Date:Thu, 14 Jul 2016 12:48:32 -0400

Thanks Stewart 
Out I go and do the test with my VOM meter.
Is there a procedure to remove the pulley?

Dennis J

Dennis Jowell
Scotch Hollow Farm
Newbury, Vermont 

> On Jul 14, 2016, at 12:40 PM, Stuart MacMillan <stuartmacm@gmail.com> wrote:
> 
> You need a high end tester/charger for this.  Parts stores and Sears repair
> shops will test it for free. Should have a minimum 75% output with
> headlights lights and heater fan on. Alternatively, you can measure the
> voltage at the alternator under this load.  Ideal output should be 14.2
> volts, but 14 is typical. If 13.2 or less I consider it junk.
> 
> I've replaced two recently that tested 25% with Bosch rebuilds from my local
> supplier (who could also switch the pulley for me), one of which tested at
> 50% when installed.  They replaced it. It's just the poor QC of rebuilds, so
> test your "new" alternator too. 
> 
> Stuart
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
> Dennis Jowell
> Sent: Thursday, July 14, 2016 9:11 AM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Checking output of alternator.
> 
> After driving my Westy to Middlebury, Vermont area decided to visit a
> historical site in town. Westy started slow but it started back to the farm.
> Stopped at another state park and had some lunch. Westy now won't start!!
> Ugh! I used the aux battery to get it going and got home. Main battery is
> new. I suspect the alternator is NG. Once again trying to understand the
> Bentley test procedures on Pg. 27.18. What is " connect alternator/regulator
> tester" ?? All I have is my digital ohm meter. Is that what they are saying
> ?  
> 
> Dennis J
> 
> Dennis Jowell
> Scotch Hollow Farm
> Newbury, Vermont 
>