Rio5 L4-1.6L (2006)
Alternator: Testing and Inspection
Output Current Test
OUTPUT CURRENT TEST
This test determines whether or not the generator gives an output current that is equivalent to the normal output.
PREPARATION
1. Prior to the test, check the following items and correct as necessary.
Check The battery installed in the vehicle to ensure that it is good condition. The battery checking method is described in "Battery".
The battery that is used to test the output current should be one that has been partially discharged. With a fully charged battery, the test may not be
conducted correctly due to an insufficient load.
Check the tension of the generator drive belt. The belt tension check method is described in "Inspect drive belt".
2. Turn off the ignition switch.
3. Disconnect the battery ground cable.
4. Disconnect the generator output wire from the generator "B" terminal.
5. Connect a DC ammeter (0 to 150 A) in series between the "B" terminal and the disconnected output wire. Be sure to connect the (-) lead wire of
the ammeter to the disconnected output wire.
NOTE: Tighten each connection securely, as a heavy current will flow. Do not rely on clips.
6. Connect a voltmeter (0 to 20 V) between the "B" terminal and ground. Connect the (+) lead wire to the generator "B" terminal and (-) lead wire to
a good ground.
7. Attach an engine tachometer and connect the battery ground cable.
8. Leave the engine hood open.
TEST
1. Check to see that the voltmeter reads as the same value as the battery voltage. If the voltmeter reads O V, and the open circuit in the wire between
generator "B" terminal and battery (-) terminal or poor grounding is suspected.
2. Start the engine and turn on the headlamps.
3. Set the headlamps to high beam and the heater blower switch to HIGH, quickly increase the engine speed to 2,500 rpm and read the maximum
output current value indicated by the ammeter.
NOTE: After the engine start up, the charging current quickly drops.
Therefore, the above operation must be done quickly to read the maximum current value correctly.
RESULT
1. The ammeter reading must be higher than the limit value. If it is lower but the generator output wire is in good condition, remove the generator
from the vehicle and test it.
Limit value: (90 A generator): 63 A min.
NOTE
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The nominal output current value is shown on the nameplate affixed to the generator body.
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The output current value changes with the electrical load and the temperature of the generator itself.
Therefore, the nominal output current may not be obtained. If such is the case, keep the headlamps on the cause discharge of the battery; or use
the lights of another vehicle to increase the electrical load.
The nominal output current may not be obtained if the temperature of the generator itself or ambient temperature is too high.
In such a case, reduce the temperature before testing again.
2. Upon completion of the output current test, lower the engine speed to idle and turn off the ignition switch.