BELT TENSION
Vehicles are equipped with automatic drive belt tensioner. Drive belt does not require adjustment. Inspect condition and tension of generator drive belt prior to performing any on-vehicle charging system tests. Replace belt and/or repair tensioner mechanism if necessary.
PRELIMINARY CHECKS
- Verify battery condition.
- Inspect accessory drive belt and tensioner.
- Inspect battery junction box fuse.
- Inspect central junction box fuse.
- Inspect 175-amp fusible link, located between starter motor and generator.
- Check all connections for looseness or corrosion.
Ensure drive belt is in good condition. Replace belt as necessary. If belt is okay, turn on headlights for 30 seconds to remove surface charge. Turn off headlights. Measure battery voltage and record. Start and run engine at 2000 RPM. Turn on high beams and turn blower to high position. Turn on air conditioning, if equipped. Run engine at 2000 RPM and observe voltmeter. Voltage should increase at least .5 volt over recorded value.
Connect voltmeter positive lead to B+ terminal on generator and negative lead to ground. Turn on headlights for 30 seconds to remove surface charge. Turn off headlights. Measure battery voltage and record. Start and run engine at 1500 RPM with no electrical load (all accessories off). Read voltmeter when voltage stabilizes. Voltage should be at least 2.5 volts higher than recorded reading.