On-Vehicle Inspection Procedure
When the charging system is operating normally, the charge indicator
goes on when the ignition switch is ON, and will go out when the engine is
running. If the lamp remains on with the engine running, the battery
may be under or overcharged. Battery voltage should be 11-16 volts.
When the charging system is operating normally, the voltmeter will read
11-16 volts.
In order to diagnose the cause of an undercharged battery, observe the
following precautions before diagnosing the charging system:
Precautions
| • | Do not reverse the connections to the generator. |
| • | Do not short across or ground any of the terminals, unless otherwise
directed. |
| • | Never disconnect the battery terminals while the generator is
on. |
Trouble in the charging system will show up as one or more of the following
conditions:
| • | Abnormal charge indicator operation |
| • | An abnormal voltmeter reading |
| • | An undercharged battery condition (with slow cranking or a dark
hydrometer) |
