MX5Ireland

How do I check if my alternator is charging the battery.

Thanks

Graham

Put a multimeter across the battery terminals as the engine is running, you should get a reading of between 11.5 and 13.5 volts ( I think)

Somebody confirm these are the correct readings???

John

OK, so its not my alternator! I checked it at the weekend and there was 12V coming from the battery...


g

I think put a meter across the battery with engine running and you should get approx 13.5 V ( not at home to check at moment, maybe someone else can)

+1
Its 13.5-14.5v with engine running I think.

Steve wrote:+1
Its 13.5-14.5v with engine running I think.

yep..they'd be the right figures

j

simples, check battery reading with engine stopped. Start engine and check readings while a beaker assistant checks voltage.Voltage will rise when engine is revved.

I checked it last night,it was 14.5V. I'm gonna charge it for a few days and see if that sorts the issue.

g

Put it on a trickle charge for a few days........

possibile : battery with 1 or more dead cells unable to hold the charge
replace battrey


chris

Anyone replaced an alternator? I have a new battery which is also losing charge.

g

graham wrote:Anyone replaced an alternator? I have a new battery which is also losing charge.

g

Easy enough job, expect some skinned knuckles though. Where you based?

John

Sorted! Just a dodgy connection!

I have a spare battery, it's just gonna go completely dead and have to be be chucked out, anyone got anything they want to trade for it?

Only one thing wrong with it one of the nipples for the venting broke off but I made a new one for it....

g