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Alternator output

Submitted by roger_jordan on Thu, 18/04/2019
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Commando

I want to test the output of the alternator on my Mk2a Commando, using a multimeter can anyone tell me what readings to expect assuming all is well?

Submitted by alan_osborn on Thu, 18/04/2019

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You can measure resistance if you are a) reasonably competant (More rubbish spelling still no spell checker) b) you will only be partialy sure. The best test is with a lamp as detailed on my web site Alternator Testing-Colours. Or of course you can do the Full Test as detailed on the web site.

Submitted by michael_sullivan on Sat, 20/04/2019

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Am I not correct that a volt-ohm meter will only test for the voltage output of the alternator and not for the power (amps) output?  For that you will have to connect a load on the system? And connect a amp meter to read the output.

Mike

Submitted by alan_sessions on Sat, 20/04/2019

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On my mk3 850 with RM23 alternator, connecting the multimeter up to the 2 alternator leads in isolation showed over 30 volts ac

Submitted by roger_jordan on Sun, 21/04/2019

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Thank you for all the input on this, I now believe the problem was a duff battery. Although the battery gave a reading of 12.38 volts on my multi-meter, once a load was applied  ie. turning on the ignition or lights the voltage dropped to less than 9 volts. I have now fitted a new battery and am not experiencing this drop in voltage. Hopefully it is problem solved.

 


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