How To Check A Charging System

http://www.ericthecarguy.com/
Well this is by request and is a companion to checking a battery so I think I'll post it as a response to that video. I try to make things easy for you and I think this test fits the bill, you can even use the same tester or just a regular DVOM which is something I think you should have if you are serious about working on cars, I hope to do an entire series on using one of these so be sure to have one.

As always thanks for watching and subscribing.

Stay dirty

ETCG

Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information.  EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video.  Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result.  Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• alternator
• checking alternator
• how to check an alternator
• charging system
• checking a charging system
• how to check a charging system
• lights dim
• slow start
• no start
• alternator output
• checking alternator output
• how to
• how to car repair
• how to auto repair
• diy auto repair
• diy car repair
• ericthecarguy
• eric the car guy

[jsjoe66]

Eric, my Astro Van battery light come on when I start the engine and idle but disappears when I drive the van even at idle. Serpentine belt is new. What to look for? Videos are very informative. Keep it up.

[EricTheCarGuy]

@jsjoe66 I would first check the belt tension but I also did a video on "Alternator Diagnosis 101" that might provide some more information for you.

[TheZenerDiode]

whats the model # number/ brand of that load tester Eric?

[EricTheCarGuy]

@TheZenerDiode I don't know, I got it at Harbor Freight though.

[MrZdog76]

I just unhook the battery while the car is running, if the car doesn't die then I know the alternator is working.

[EricTheCarGuy]

@MrZdog76 I don't recommend that mostly because if you touch the positive cable to anything metal you could short out the entire electrical system.

[pukaman2000]

@MrZdog76 Very bad idea. System is not designed to run this way and can result in electronic components burning out. New computer is some 600 dollars. You can blow the rectifiers in a good alternator.

[carpediem1956]

I never really understood where the word grease monkey originated from until seeing a couple of videos haha :-p I still owe you that beer by the way!!! Thanks for sharing your wisdom! The car stuff is also interesting ;-)

[torque589]

eric, what im using to know if the alternator is working is by simply using an AC/DC clamp ammeter, in this way i know how much current my alternator is giving.

[torque589]

@MrZdog76, very informative, do this on a modern car and it will fry out your computer box(ECU),fuel injector, alternator, a/c circuit, car stereo,and all the electrical that is switch on when you remove the battery cable...

[PanzarMetal]

Eric!

I liked this video from the first 3 seconds.

[submarineone]

yeap, eric makes everyone listen, lol on his remark pay attention and listen. awesome teaching, not boring, excellent......!!!

[submarineone]

thanks eric, that's a good video! thanks for sharing! outstanding job.....good work!!!

[Bryanx89]

@TheZenerDiode looks very similar to one i sell. its made by Schumacher model: BT-100

[strongsoldier100]

Interesting test i'll remember that one foe sure. Thanks!

[Edwin19911000]

Your good at explaining stuff not like some other videos thanks I don't know anything about cars nd stuff nd I'm Bearly gunna go to wyo tech to studies as a auto mechanic nd I mostly know stuff thanks;)