Re: [DML] Alternator Testing

["DMC Joe" <dmcjoe@xxxx>]

Wayne,

The proper test for your alternator is to attach a voltmeter to the
alternator output, start the engine, switch on all accessories, and note the
voltage reading.
Allow the engine to idle, with all accessories on for an additional 10
minutes.
Compare the voltage between the start of the test and
after ten minutes of idle. *If the alternator is charging less than 12 volts
towards
the end of the test the alternator may be deffective.

I'm not sure if you mentioned in an earlier post that this alternator could
be a Ducellier. If it is, you may be wasting a lot of time and effort.

The Ducellier's reputation is:
Never being able to supply the voltage needed when your DeLorean needs it
most; and completely failing, while your in traffic, on a hot summer
afternoon, while it is raining.

*Faulty ground connections anywhere in the electrical system can produce
false readings.

"We're here to help you"

DMC Help / De Lorean Services / <dmchelp@xxxx>
Web Site: <www.deloreanservices.com>
.

----- Original Message -----
From: <deloreanernst@xxxx>
To: <dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Friday, July 14, 2000 6:46 PM
Subject: Re: [DML] "no start" is cured


> In a message dated 7/14/00 12:45:38 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
dmcjoe@xxxx
> writes:
>
> << The Ducellier alternator is rated at 80 amps
> continuous, >>
>
> Joe- (& List)
> Took my D to Sears for the free replacement battery this afternoon.
Hooking
> up the tester, Sears said they think the alternator is the problem, it
isn't
> charging the battery. My mechanic told me yesterday, looking at HIS
tester,
> that the BATTERY is the problem, therefore the alternator, which he said
is
> fine, can't charge it fully. What gives? They both said the alternator
> seems to be putting out about 13 amps or a little less with the motor
> running. They differ over whether that is "just fine" or "poor."The
usually
> gauge reads at about "8 o'clock" sometimes below the lower middle line.
That
> looks low to me. Lower than before a/c season. :( I'm a daily driver
but
> most of my driving is under 10 minutes. It's a small town. Sears is
> charging the battery overnight to see if it is really the problem. I'll
be
> interested to see who wins this "finger pointing" contest!
>
> -Wayne
> 11174