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Home >> Saturn >> 1995 >> SC2 Automatic >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Electrical >> Charging Systems >> Alternator & Regulator >> On-Vehicle Testing >> Battery/Generator Load Test (ARBST Test)
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Battery/Generator Load Test (ARBST Test)

  1. Ensure fusible link between starter and generator is okay. Ensure connections are clean and tight.
    NOTE: Blown fusible link may be caused by an internal generator failure. Verify no external arcing or shorting of fusible link with other wires and/or components is present. If no problems are found, replace generator.
  2. Clean battery terminals and attach ARBST load tester. Attach clamps to appropriate terminals. Clamp current probe to wiring going to negative battery terminal. Arrow on probe should point toward battery.
  3. Press CHARGING SYSTEM TEST button. Display should show correct number of cylinders. To change number of cylinders, press appropriate number button on keypad.
  4. Run engine at 2000 RPM until display flashes MAINTAIN 2000 RPM. Hold engine speed at 2000 RPM until counter counts down from 10 seconds. When 10 seconds are over, run engine at idle until display flashes MAINTAIN IDLE.
  5. Hold at idle for a few seconds until display flashes TEST COMPLETE. Turn engine off. Press CONTINUE button to see results of testing. ARBST tester will display voltage and current output of generator.
  6. With a good battery in vehicle, voltage output should be greater than 13 volts. All CS series generators should be able to produce within 15 amps of rated output at 2000 RPM.
  7. Vehicles are equipped with a 96-amp generator and should have a current output of 20-32 amps at 650 RPM with a generator inlet air temperature of 81-221°F (27-105°C) or an output of 72-91 amps at 2000 RPM with a generator inlet air temperature of 81-221°F (27-105°C).
  8. If generator does not pass voltage and current tests, ensure battery is fully charged and no excessive electrical loads are present. If battery and electrical loads are okay, replace generator.
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