9.2. Alternator

the battery condition. If a green spot can be seen there is no further need for attention, i.e. the battery is sufficiently charged. If the battery checker turns dark, the battery must be re-charged. If the checker turns a light colour, electrolyte is missing in the battery.

• If frequent topping-up is necessary, it may be that the battery is over-charged by the alternator and the latter should be checked accordingly. A cracked battery case can also be the cause.
• The battery cables should always be firmly clamped and the battery terminals must be free of corrosion to ensure good electrical conduct. Corroded areas can be cleaned with a soda solution and a wire brush. A thin coating of petroleum jelly should be smeared on battery posts before cables are re-connected.
• Check the gravity of the electrolyte in each cell using a hydrometer. This is an indication of the charge condition of the battery. All cells should give the same reading and if there is a great variation in one cell, then either the electrolyte in the cell is weak due to being topped-up with distilled water or that cell is defective. In this case, a new battery must be fitted.
• The battery can be charged with a home-charger, but follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damage to the battery.

Note that the following will happen when the battery is disconnected:

• The radio security code will have to be known and set in order to return the radio to service (if a radio of this type is fitted).

9.2. Alternator

9.2.0. TECHNICAL DATA

Types fitted: … Paris-Rhone A14 N91, Motorola 9 AR 5097 or Valeo 29 402 are typical examples fitted (with built-in electronic regulator)

Voltage - All: … 14 volts

Minimum current: … Up to 80 amps

10.2.1. PRECAUTIONS WITH ALTERNATORS

(a) Do not rotate the alternator unless connected to the battery.

(b) Before connecting the alternator, ensure that the battery is correctly connected (negative terminal to earth).

(c) Do not check the operation of the alternator by short-circuiting either the positive terminals and earth.

(d) Take care not to reverse the leads connected to the regulator.

(e) Do not connect a suppressor capacitor to the terminals of the alternator or the regulator, without seeking professional advice.

(f) Do not connect a battery charger to the battery and never carry out any arc welding (or spot welding) on the car chassis unless both the positive and negative leads are disconnected from the battery.

It is obvious that many different alternators are fitted over the years into the individual models covered. Always fit one as originally found in the vehicle.