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View Full Version : Red gen light is on



nickyg
04-25-2014, 03:39 PM
On my way into work today my red "GEN" light came on. (no cel) The belts are O.K and the alternator is spinning. what and how should I check before I pull the Alt. by the way it's old and crusty and probably wouldn't hurt to replace. any easy upgrade options?

NW99XJ
04-25-2014, 04:03 PM
You'll want to do a couple things, first determine what sort of voltage the alternator is putting out... Do this by using a multimeter.
You should see a reading (with the engine running) of around 13v or more (I think 14.4 is ideal) ...anything below 13 and you're alternator is working right.
Next you'll want to do a load test... many auto shops and some part stores will do this for free.... cant do it on your own unless you have the equipment.
These two tests will determine two things, the condition of the battery, and the condition of the charging system.
In the mean time, I would suggest doing two other things.... check the electolyte fluid level inside the battery by popping off the covers and doing a visual inspection... the fluid level should be at the very least up to the top of the plates inside. It should be right at the point below the plate cavity (basically at the very bottom of the ports/holes your looking thru. If it's low, do not put Gatorade in the battery... that contains a different kind of electrolyte.... tap water has too many minerals and impurities, so if nothing else, use good filtered or distilled water.
The other thing I'll suggest is to ensure that all of your connections are as solid as they could possibly be, and super clean of any grease, grime, or oxidation.... this includes the connection at the alternator, the grounds, and at the battery itself.
Good luck!

4.3LXJ
04-25-2014, 04:08 PM
Josh said it all

nickyg
04-26-2014, 09:20 AM
Problem solved. Apparently the screw that holds my ground to the inner fender decided to leave home and join the circus.

Thanks for your help.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e236/ramprat101/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-04/9C1B0FAE-3732-479D-A58B-FA1F662DF4DC_zpstmle2srk.jpg (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/ramprat101/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-04/9C1B0FAE-3732-479D-A58B-FA1F662DF4DC_zpstmle2srk.jpg.html)



Here's my volts now.
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e236/ramprat101/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-04/7E3F2610-2902-48E9-9F49-BDF33AE6F26B_zpsxfdydbn9.jpg (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/ramprat101/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-04/7E3F2610-2902-48E9-9F49-BDF33AE6F26B_zpsxfdydbn9.jpg.html)

Again, Thanks for your help guys

4.3LXJ
04-26-2014, 09:21 AM
So did the screw take up with the 400# gorilla lady?

nickyg
04-26-2014, 09:25 AM
So did the screw take up with the 400# gorilla lady?

Only time will tell, If you see it tell him I said "hello". I just wish he would've put in a two week notice.
I'm worried now he might get home sick and hitch a ride back in my tire.

4.3LXJ
04-26-2014, 09:26 AM
That happens with gorilla ladies. Wake up after a few beers and want to come home