Alternator Test
1. Turn off all accessories and lights.
2. Start engine and adjust idle to 2000-250-0 RPM. Let engine run for at least 2 minutes or until charging voltage stabilizes before performing next step.
3. The SG-1 voltmeter can be connected by plugging into the cigarette receptacle.
4. The reading of the voltmeter is the Dynamic charging voltage of the charging system. The voltmeter should read as follows:
Maitenance-Free batteries
Above 15.5 Overcharging (unless very cold)
14.5-15.1 Normal charging at 80 deg. F.
13.8-14.4 Normal for hot weather, may indicate low charging rate in cold weather.
12.6 - 13.0 Charging rate too low, unless very hot.
Below 12.6 Not charging at all.
LOW Maintenance Batteries
Above 15.1 Overcharging.
13.8 - 14.6 Normal charging at 80 deg. F.
13.0 - 13.8 Normal for hot weather, may indicate low charging rate in cold weather.
12.6 - 13.0 Charging rate too low, unless very hot.
Below 12.6 Not charging at all.
The Starter Test
If meter reads below 9 volts, possible cases are:
a: Undercharged battery.
b: High starter current draw indicating a bad starter or solenoid. Check current draw with Hoyt SG-1 Inductive meter tester.
If meter reads above 12 volts, possible cases are:
a: Bad cables.
b: Corroded or loose terminals.