alternator test

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heavyusr

83 posts

Master Geek
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#143383 13-Apr-2014 03:43

Is it possible to test an alternator of a car using this cigarette lighter accessory?:

http://jaycar.co.nz/productView.asp?ID=PP2142&form=CAT2&SUBCATID=1052#7

Has anyone used one of these before?

RunningMan

9004 posts

Uber Geek
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#1024252 13-Apr-2014 06:56

It will give a basic indication as to alternator output voltage, but it won't be able to conduct a high current load test on the battery.

richms

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#1024516 13-Apr-2014 20:12

You can get an actual volt meter one off ebay for about $3 including china airmail so I would pass on that overpriced jaycar offering.

You can see the voltage at the lighter socket and use it as a guide as to if the alternator is producing, but it will not be as accurate as a meter straight on the battery as you will have voltage drop across all the connections which might show you a good voltage but the battery isnt getting it all. Often starting is uneffected by bad connections as there is a seperate lead from the battery to the starter so you can have massive voltage drops in the rest of the loom but it cranks over fine.

Richard rich.ms