‘dixie LD f TECH TIPS Alternator Trouble Shooting Guide Listed below are some of the more common problems that occur in alternators and charging systems, along with some of the likely causes and remedies. Due to the number of types of units and systems that exist this is only a general listing of the most common problems, possible causes and remedies that are possible. Also check for vehicle specific Dixie Tech Tips. Symptom Low output from the alternator (seen as dim headlights, slow-blinking turn signals, etc) Possible Causes Remedy e Worn, cracked, glazed or loose belt e Adjust or replace belt and/or tensioner e Bad battery e Replace battery e Battery low on electrolyte e Fill battery to proper level e Bad battery connection e Repair or replace connections or cables e High voltage drop on wires e Repair or replace connections or cables e Voltage regulator not adjusted properly e Adjust or replace regulator as (when applicable) necessary (or replace alternator if internally regulated) e Bad wiring harness or fusible links e Isolate the problem and repair or replace as necessary e Bad alternator e Replace the alternator Symptom Output from the alternator is too high (seen as overbright headlights, fast-blinking turn signals, burnt out bulbs, etc) Possible Causes Remedy e Bad battery e Replace the battery e Bad/maladjusted voltage regulator e Adjust the regulator (when applicable) or replace the regulator or alternator (when internally regulated) e Bad battery connections or main fusible e Repair or replace connections or link cables e Bad wiring harness connections e Isolate the problem and repair or replace as necessary REV: 20090820 Courtesy Dixie Technical Department TSB_010.doc Dixie Tech Tips are intended for use by professional technicians, and are not for the general public. They are written to inform technicians of conditions that may exist or as a guide to aid in diagnosing and servicing a vehicle. All references to original equipment manufactures, vehicle manufactures and any other Trade Mark names are for the sole purpose of identifying the vehicle and or part that the Tech Tip applies to. This document is property of Dixie Electric Ltd. and is not to be copied or distributed with out written permission.