Generator Output: Notes

Check generator wiring harness electrical connections at generator. Check drive belt tension. See BELT TENSION under ADJUSTMENTS. Ensure battery is fully charged.
Connect voltmeter between ground and generator "B" (battery) terminal. Connect ammeter positive lead to generator "B" (battery) terminal. Connect ammeter negative lead to positive battery terminal on the battery. See Fig 1 or Fig 2 .

To check generator no-load output, ensure all accessories are off. Start engine and allow engine to idle. Increase engine speed to 2000 RPM, and note output voltage and output amperage. Output voltage and output amperage should be within specification. See GENERATOR OUTPUT SPECIFICATIONS table.

NOTE: Output voltage may slightly vary depending on temperature of IC voltage regulator case.

GENERATOR OUTPUT SPECIFICATIONS

Application

Specification

Output Amperage

At No-Load

10 Amps Maximum

At High-Load

At Least 20 Amps

Output Voltage ⁽¹⁾

14.4-15.0 Volts

⁽¹⁾	Output voltage specification listed is at 68°F (20°C). Output voltage may slightly vary depending on temperature of IC voltage regulator case.

If output voltage and output amperage are within specification, go to step 7). If output voltage exceeds specification, check ground on the brushes. If ground on brushes is okay, replace IC voltage regulator.
If output voltage is less than specification, shut engine off. Ground generator "F" terminal. See Fig 3 . Start engine and increase engine speed to 2000 RPM. Note output voltage. Output voltage should be within specification. See GENERATOR OUTPUT SPECIFICATIONS table.
If output voltage now exceeds specification, replace IC voltage regulator. If output voltage is still less than specified, generator is defective. Repair or replace generator as necessary.
To check generator high-load output, allow engine to idle. Increase engine speed to 2000 RPM. Turn on headlights and heater motor. Note output amperage. Output amperage should be within specification. See GENERATOR OUTPUT SPECIFICATIONS table. If output amperage is less than specification, repair or replace generator as necessary.

Fig 1: Testing Generator Output (Esteem & Sidekick 1.8L)

Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.

Fig 2: Testing Generator Output (Sidekick 1.6L, Swift & X90)

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Fig 3: Grounding Generator "F" Terminal (Esteem & Sidekick 1.8L)

Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.