Charging System
The condition of charge in the battery at each regular inspection will show if the charging system operates correctly. An adjustment is necessary when the battery is constantly in a low condition of charge or a large amount of water is needed. A large amount of water would be more than one ounce of water per cell per week or per every 100 service hours.
When you have an opportunity, test of the charging unit and voltage regulator on the engine:
- Use wiring that is a permanent part of the system.
- Use components that are a permanent part of the system.
Off-engine testing or bench testing offers a test of both the charging unit and voltage regulator operation. This testing will provide an indication of needed repair. After repairs are made, recheck the units in order to prove that both units have been repaired to the original condition of operation.
To check for correct output of the alternator, see the Specifications module.
For complete service information, refer to Service Manual Module, SENR7503, "Delco Remy 30-SI Series Alternators". This module is part of Service Manual, REGO00636.
Before the start of on-engine testing, the charging system and the battery must be checked according to the following steps.
- The battery must be at least 75 percent (1.225 Sp Gr) of the full charge. The battery must be held tightly in place. The battery holder must not put too much stress on the battery.
- Cables between the battery, the starter, and the engine ground must be the correct size. Wires and cables must be free of corrosion. Wires and cables must have cable support clamps in order to prevent stress on battery connections (terminals).
- The following components that have direct relation to the charging circuit must give correct circuit control:
- Leads
- Junctions
- Switches
- Panel instruments
- Leads
- Inspect the drive components for the charging unit in order to be sure that the components are free of both grease and oil. Be sure that the drive components have the ability to operate the charging unit.
Alternator Regulator
The charging rate of the alternator should be checked when an alternator is charging the battery too much. The charging rate of the alternator should be checked when an alternator is not charging the battery enough. Make reference to the Specifications module in order to find all testing specifications for the alternators and regulators.
No adjustment can be made in order to change the rate of charge on the alternator regulators. If the rate of charge is not correct, a replacement of the regulator is necessary.
Tightening The Alternator Pulley Nut
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| Illustration 1 | g00283568 |
Tools for Tightening the Alternator Pulley Nut (1) 8T-9293 Torque Wrench. (2) 8S-1588 Adapter (1/2 inch female to 3/8 inch male). (3) 2P-8267 Socket Assembly. (4) 8H-8517 Combination Wrench (1-1/8 inch). (5) 8T-5314 Socket . | |
Tighten the nut that holds the pulley with the tools shown. Refer to the Specifications, "Alternators and Regulators" module for the torque.