Alternator test results...
#1
Alternator test results...
So, I had my alternator checked at a local auto parts store and these were the results. The guy told me that my alternator would last about 2 days then it would most likely leave me stranded. I am wondering if based on these results, is he right or was he just trying to push me into making the sale? I really don't have $150 to spend on an alternator plus labor charge.
#2
That does seem like a lot of ripple, although I've never seen the output of an alternator on an oscilloscope before. I would definitely think that your electrical system is not appreciating the almost half a volt of AC you are feeding it.
According to this, it should be able four times lower (90mV). I think one of your diodes may be open.
According to this, it should be able four times lower (90mV). I think one of your diodes may be open.
#5
well, last week I started my car and both the brake and battery light on my dash came on. I searched on the org and posted a thread and everyone said it was the alternator. I also went to two different Advance Auto stores and they both told me that the alternator had a "ripple" and it was going bad. One guy even said it would last about 2 days then break down. This is why I replaced it with a brand new alternator and now I'm having electrical issues. Nothing works inside: radio, windows, AC, windshield wipers, horn, NOTHING! Any ideas why???
#6
I think you are crazy. That much ripple is unacceptable in any DC power supply I've ever seen. The three phase design specifically meant to reduce ripple. I'm going to go out during my break and read how much AC my alternator is making.
EDIT - My ripple is 20mV AC under load. So I would say 411mV is too high (About 20x too high!).
EDIT - My ripple is 20mV AC under load. So I would say 411mV is too high (About 20x too high!).
Last edited by ajm8127; 04-21-2010 at 06:47 AM.
#8
Anyway, I do agree that there will always be ripple in the output, but the scale of it is what's important. All generators produce AC, that's just the nature of them. However, if you have a DC circuit, that AC need to be rectified, and while some ripple will invariably make it through, minimizing it is very important. Sensible vaules are below 100mV.
#9
check this thread: http://forums.maxima.org/4th-generat...placement.html
it might be something related to your situation.
it might be something related to your situation.
#10
well, last week I started my car and both the brake and battery light on my dash came on. I searched on the org and posted a thread and everyone said it was the alternator. I also went to two different Advance Auto stores and they both told me that the alternator had a "ripple" and it was going bad. One guy even said it would last about 2 days then break down. This is why I replaced it with a brand new alternator and now I'm having electrical issues. Nothing works inside: radio, windows, AC, windshield wipers, horn, NOTHING! Any ideas why???
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