Alternator & Regulator Acura Integra I

DESCRIPTION

Nippondenso alternators are conventional 3-phase alternators utilizing 3 positive and 3 negative diodes to rectify current. Charging system voltage is controlled by an internal Integrated Circuit (IC) voltage regulator, or external voltage regulators.

PRELIMINARY INSPECTION

Check alternator wire harness connections and drive belt tension. Battery must be fully charged. Ensure No. 4 (10A) fuse in dash fuse box is good.

Scheme 1

Scheme 2

1. Remove alternator connector. Turn ignition switch to "ON" position. There should be battery voltage between "IGN" (Black/Yellow) terminal and ground.
2. If no voltage is indicated, check for a blown No. 11 fuse or an open in the Blue/Yellow wire between dash fuse box and voltage regulator. If okay, go to next step.
3. On Integra, connect a voltmeter and ammeter (100-amp capacity) between alternator "B" terminal and White wire. (Scheme 1) An inductive pick-up can be used instead of disconnecting White wire. (Scheme 1): Location of Alternator Testing Points
4. Start engine and turn on headlights, blower motor, rear window defogger, etc. If voltage stays above 13.5 volts, apply more electrical load to lower voltage to below 13.5 volts. If voltage increases to above 16 volts, replace voltage regulator.
5. Compare readings to chart. (Scheme 2) If there is no output or reading is below specification, go to step 7). If output is within specification and voltage is between 13.9-15.1 volts, go to next step. (Scheme 2): Alternator Output by RPM Specification Charts
6. Turn off all alternator loads. Measure alternator output voltage with alternator at 15,000 RPM. If voltage is between 13.9-15.1 volts, alternator and regulator are okay.
7. Perform a full-field test. Insert a screwdriver into brush holder screw hole in alternator and cover. While screwdriver is touching brush screw, ground it against the cover. Check amperage when grounding screwdriver. CAUTION: Ground screwdriver for as short a time as possible. Do not exceed maximum recommended voltage of 16 volts.
8. Compare amperage reading from full-field test with chart. (Scheme 2) If reading is not within specification, alternator is defective. If reading is within specification, voltage regulator is defective.

TESTER LIGHT OUTPUT TEST CHARTS (I/P CHARGE INDICATOR ON)

TESTER LIGHT OUTPUT TEST CHARTS (I/P CHARGE INDICATOR ON)

TESTER LIGHT OUTPUT TEST CHARTS (I/P CHARGE INDICATOR OFF)

TESTER LIGHT OUTPUT TEST CHARTS (I/P CHARGE INDICATOR OFF)

ROTOR

1. Check rotor for open field windings by using an ohmmeter across slip rings. Rotor resistance should be 2.8-3.0 ohms for all models.
2. Check rotor for shorts to ground by connecting ohmmeter between slip ring and rotor shaft. Ohmmeter should show no continuity. Check slip rings for wear or pitting. Turn rotor on lathe if necessary. Check bearing and replace if necessary.

STATOR

Connect ohmmeter between 2 stator leads. Ensure there is continuity between all stator leads. Connect ohmmeter between each stator lead and metal core. Ohmmeter should show no continuity. If continuity is indicated, stator must be replaced.

RECTIFIER DIODES

1. With rectifier assembly on bench, contact diode plate with one probe and each of the 3 diode leads with other probe. Note ohmmeter reading. Reverse probes and repeat test. Check all diodes in this manner.
2. All diodes should show a low reading in one direction and NO reading in opposite direction. If any rectifier diode is defective, replace rectifier assembly.

BRUSHES

1. Check for cracks and minimum length of .18-.22" (4.5-5.5 mm). If damaged or worn, replace brushes. Brushes should slide smoothly in holders. Install new springs when replacing brushes. Solder brush wire.
2. New brush protrusion should be .41" (10.5 mm).