Do's Alternators
- Negative terminal should be connected to the earthing port.
- Use a multimeter or test lamp to check continuity of wiring.
- Keep the Engine off when you disconnect or reconnect wiring during electrical service.
- Isolate Alternator while carrying out electric / arc welding on the vehicle.
- The operation of the Alternator is only permissible with an assembled regulator and with a connected battery system, typically the Alternator is mounted directly on the engine block.
- The mounting used must be rigid and guarantee a ground connection to the Alternator housing.
- The Alternator has to be driven by a V-belt or a poly V-belt, directly connected to the engine crankshaft.
- The tensioning of the belt can be performed manually or by a separate auto belt-tensioner.
- Correct Alternator operation can only be achieved when the specified direction of rotation and the belt tension is maintained.
- Incorrect belt tension will damage the bearing and lead to internal eccentric rubbing, damaging the Alternator.
- Special attention to be paid when Alternators are used together with other systems (e.g. electrical hydraulic brake, electrical steering etc.), as interference can occur, which can shut off the Alternator, leading to loss of electrical output
Don'ts Alternators
- Don’t run the Alternator without the Battery in the car.
- Don’t disconnect Battery cables or wiring in the charging system while the Engine is running.
- Don’t use a high voltage instrument on Alternator.
- Swapping of the battery connections even for a short period only can result in non-reversible damage or functional FAILURE of the Alternator.
- Dismantling of the battery cables can lead to the loosening of the B+ bolt on the Alternator side. It is necessary to fasten the bolt to the maximum fastening torque as indicated.
- Insufficient contact can lead to a failed output signal hence it is necessary to ensure proper plug-in connection.
- The product must not be dropped or exposed to any shocks out of normal conditions. The function of the Alternator is not guaranteed afterwards.
- Even with little stress caused by hitting, a non-visible pre-damage can occur, which can lead to a functional malfunction.
- Operation with defective battery or without battery can lead to de-excitation of the Alternator
- Do not store the Alternator in wet condition. This applies for installed as well as for non-installed Alternators. If the Alternator is exposed to an engine cleaning process, a drying process should be done prior to storage of the engine.
- Do not disconnect the battery cable while the engine is running.
Related Topics
BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF A AUTOMOBILE ALTERNATOR
