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Home >> Dodge and Ram >> 1988 >> Caravan Base, Automatic >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Electrical >> Charging Systems >> Alternator - BOSCH >> Testing (On-Vehicle) >> Current Output Test

Current Output Test

  1. Verify that ignition is off and disconnect negative battery cable. Disconnect alternator output wire from alternator "BATT" terminal. Using a 0-100 amp ammeter, connect positive test lead to alternator "BATT" terminal and negative test lead to disconnected alternator output wire.
  2. Using a voltmeter, connect positive test lead to alternator "BATT" terminal and negative lead to ground. Disconnect voltage regulator connector. Connect a jumper wire from Green wire to ground. See Fig 1 and Fig 2 .
    CAUTION: DO NOT  connect Blue J2 wire of wiring connector to ground. DO NOT  spread connector terminals with jumper wire.
  3. Attach negative battery cable and connect tachometer to engine. Install carbon pile rheostat between battery terminals. Put Variable Carbon Pile Rheostat ("OPEN" or "OFF" position). Start engine. Immediately reduce engine to idle speed.
  4. Adjust carbon pile and engine speed in increments until a speed of 1250 RPM and until voltmeter reads 15 volts. DO NOT  allow voltage to exceed 16 volts.
  5. Ammeter reading should be within specifications. See the ALTERNATOR SPECIFICATIONS  table. If reading is less than specified, replace alternator or remove and bench test.
  6. After test is completed, reduce engine speed. Remove all test equipment. Reinstall voltage regulator connector and alternator output wire to alternator battery terminal. Reinstall negative battery cable.
Fig 1: Connector Green Wire to Ground
G71028Courtesy of CHRYSLER MOTORS.
Fig 2: Alternator Current Output Wiring Diagram
G71029Courtesy of CHRYSLER MOTORS.