Alternator test

[2001ExpSport]

I figured I'd post here since you guys deal with this alot with audio systems.

What is the proper way to test the output of my alternator, what voltage should it have and is the output adjustable.

Thanks,
Matt

 

[jeephater#1]

no not adjustable you have to get bigger amp take it to autozone thats the easiest way to find out if its bad they also have the better alts.

 

[dreamr]

I figured I'd post here since you guys deal with this alot with audio systems.

What is the proper way to test the output of my alternator, what voltage should it have and is the output adjustable.

Thanks,
Matt

To test an alternator you check the voltage at the battery which is around 12 volts. (just making sure the battery is OK)

Start the car now that reading should be around 14 volts

If you are concerned about excessive accessory draw, turn them all on and test again with the vehicle running. If that voltage has dipped significantly below 14 volts, you should consider upgrading to a higher amp alternator which will allow for greater draw on the system before starting to drain the battery.

 

[ExplorerDMB]

Or you can take it to a shop and have an AVR done which tests the charging system on all on the vehicle via amp probe. Very useful!

-Drew

 

[dreamr]

Or you can take it to a shop and have an AVR done which tests the charging system on all on the vehicle via amp probe. Very useful!

-Drew

Could this test assist in figuring out what amp capacity is required in my vehicle at idle w/ accessories and underdrive pullies??

 

[2001ExpSport]

I tested it this morning and got 14.75V and with accessories on 14.55V.

Looks like I am good to go.

I wanted to check because I just bought a new battery and the dash guage always shows it as low.

Thanks,
Matt

 

[Mista808]

Quick question... now that I have my Kicker L7s in and the 1200.1 in, should I get a 200 amp mr. altenator first, or should I get a yellow top optima battery first?

keep in mind I plan to get both regardles.... just have to do one at a time.

 

[bmxking5]

Alternator. The alternator is what basically runs the vehicle after the battery is initially used to start it. The extra power that the alternator has after powering the accessories goes to recharging the battery.

 

[Mista808]

Alternator. The alternator is what does basically runs the vehicle after the battery is initially used to start it. The extra power that the alternator has after powering the accessories goes to charging the battery back up.

well then that's what's next for my x