Charging System Service

Problem

Battery does not stay charged but engine starts okey.

Cause

Battery is defective. Loose or worn alternator belt. Damaged or worn wiring cables. The alternators are defective. The regulators are defective. There are other electrical system malfunction.

Solution

Test the battery or replace the battery if necessary. Adjust or replace the alternator belt. Test and replace components as required. Test or replace regulator if necessary. Check other system for current draw.

Problem
Alternator is noisy.

Cause
Loose or worn  alternator belt. Bent pulley flanges. The alternator is defective. Loose alternator mounting.

Solution

Adjust belt tension or replace if worn. Replace the pulley. Service or replace the alternator. Tighten the alternator mounting.

Problem
Lights or fuses out frequently.

Cause
Wiring is worn or damaged. The alternator or regulator is defective. The battery is defective.

Solution

Service is required. Test, service and replace alternator or regulator if necessary. 

Problem
Charge indicator lights flicker after engine starts or comes on  while driving.

Cause
Loose or worn alternator belt. The alternator is defective. Field circuit ground is defective. The regulator is defective. The light circuit wiring or connector is defective.

Solution

Adjust tension or replace the alternator belt. Service or replace the alternator. Service or replace wiring or connection of field circuit. Test or replace regulator if necessary. Repair light circuit wiring or connector as required.

Problem
Charge indicator light flickers while driving.

Cause
Loose or worn alternator belt. Loose or improper wiring connections. Alternator is defective. Regulator is defective.

Solution

Adjust tension or replace alternator belt. Service wiring connections as required. Service or replace alternator. Test or replace regulator if necessary.

Problem
Charge indicator gauge or meter shows discharge.

Cause
Loose or worn alternator belt. Damaged or worn wiring or battery to alternator for ground or open. Field circuit ground is defective. The alternator is defective, The regulator is defective. Gauge or meter wiring or connections is defective. Damaged or worn gauge or meter. Other electrical system malfunction.

Solution
Adjust tension or replace alternator belt. Replace or repair wiring.  Service or repair the alternator. Test and replace regulator if necessary. Service gauge or meter wiring as required. Replace worn gauge or meter. Service electrical system as required.