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Home >> Pontiac >> 2001 >> Aztek Base, AWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 503 (Generators & Regulators) >> On-Vehicle Tests >> Generator Current
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Generator Current

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mazda 3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: Since the charging current decreases rapidly after starting the engine, carry out the following procedure quickly, and read the maximum current value.
  1. Verify that the battery is fully charged.
  2. Verify that the drive belt deflection/tension is correct.
  3. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  4. Connect a tester capable of reading 120 amps or above, between generator terminal "B" and the wiring harness connector.
  5. Connect the negative battery cable.
  6. Turn off all electrical loads. Start the engine. Increase engine speed to 2500 RPM.
    7. NOTE: When the electrical load of the vehicle is low, specified current will not be verified although the generator is normal. In this case, increase the electrical load (turn on the headlights and leave it for a while, then discharge the battery, etc.) and recheck.
    NOTE: When the generator itself or the ambient temperature is too high, specified current will also not be verified. In this case, cool down the generator and recheck.
  7. Turn headlights (high-beam), blower motor (high), rear window defroster and brake lights on and verify that the current reading increases more than minimum current value - 70 percent of the nominal output current (nominal output current: 90 amps, ambient temperature - 68°F (20°C), voltage 13.0-15.0 volts, while both engine and generator are cold. If it is not as specified, go to PCM AND GENERATOR SHEARING INSPECTION  under SYSTEM TESTS.
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