Current Output Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1995 Plymouth Voyager, 1995 Plymouth Grand Voyager, 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan, 1995 Dodge Caravan, and 1995 Chrysler Town & Country. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
Output test determines if generator is capable of delivering its rated current output.
- Ensure battery is fully charged. Disconnect negative battery cable. Disconnect generator output wire at generator B+ terminal. See Figure
- Using a DC ammeter (0-150 amps), connect positive lead to generator B+ terminal. Connect negative lead to generator output wire. See Fig 1 Using a voltmeter (0-18 volts minimum), connect positive voltmeter lead to generator B+ terminal. Connect negative lead to good ground.
- Connect engine tachometer, and reconnect negative battery cable. Connect carbon pile rheostat between battery terminals. Ensure carbon pile is in OFF position before connecting leads.CAUTION: Generator has 2 field terminals: generator field driver (Dark Green or Dark Green/White wire) and ASD relay output (Dark Green/Orange or Dark Blue wire). DO NOT connect generator ASD relay output terminal to ground.
- Remove air hose between PCM and air cleaner. Connect jumper wire between ground and generator field driver terminal (Dark Green or Dark Green/White wire) on back of generator.
- Start engine, and immediately reduce engine speed to idle. Adjust carbon pile and engine speed in increments until engine speed is 1250 RPM and voltmeter reads 15 volts. DO NOT allow voltage to exceed 16 volts.
- Note reading on ammeter. Ensure generator output current is within its rating range. See GENERATOR APPLICATION table at beginning of article. If generator output current is less than specified and generator output wire resistance is not excessive, replace generator.
- After output test is completed, reduce engine speed, and turn off carbon pile and ignition. Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove test ammeter, voltmeter, tachometer and carbon pile. Remove jumper wire between generator field driver terminal and ground. Reconnect generator output wire to generator B+ terminal. Connect negative battery cable. Connect air hose between PCM and air cleaner, if removed.