Solution #1: Focus on your battery first. If your vehicle has stopped running, jumpstart the engine, remove the jumper cables as quickly as possible, and wait. If the vehicle keeps running after a period of time, there’s likely a problem with your battery. Take into account the outward appearance and age of the battery when deciding whether to replace it. Also, inspect your battery cables and make sure they are in good shape. Bad cables will not deliver the full current flow needed to operate properly.
Solution #2: If the battery won’t hold its charge and your engine stalls out, then it’s time to turn your attention to the alternator.Here are a few quick ways to pinpoint a bad alternator:
Solution #3: Check the alternator cables for abnormal wear, including cracking and fraying. Replace or tighten the cables as necessary.
Solution : This is usually caused by an overcharged battery, which is typically the result of high alternator voltage. This can be caused by a short or ground in the rotor field winding within the alternator or a defective regulator.
Solution #1: Since the alternator is responsible for supplying the auxiliary power to your lights and electrical components, start with the alternator and associated items. First, examine the wiring for damage or wear and replace as necessary.
Solution #2: If the alternator is supplying proper voltage, chances are the problem lies with your battery.
Solution #3: Turn on your vehicle and use a voltmeter to test your battery’s charge. If voltage is below 13.5, there’s a good chance the alternator is not keeping up with your battery’s charging needs and will need replaced. If voltage is around 13.5-15, turn your attention to your battery.
Solution #1: Check the alternator belt for wear or looseness. Replace or tighten as necessary, making sure the belt is properly aligned on the pulley. Improperly aligned alternator belts will often make a whining sound.
Solution #2: Check for bent pulley flanges that may cause the belt to run out of alignment.
Solution #3: Make sure the alternator is mounted securely so there is not excess movement.
Solution #4: Perhaps your alternator has seen better days and is on the verge of failure. Once you’ve gone through solutions 1-3, you may need to consider replacing the entire unit if the noise persists.
Solution At the very least, you likely have a loose alternator belt or bad wiring connection. Start by inspecting the alternator belt for wear and tightening it as needed. Also look for improper wiring connections. If one of these areas isn’t the culprit, you likely have a faulty alternator or regulator, which will need replaced.
© 2016 Auto-Fix. Design by ASME Modern Academy Section