How can I tell if my alternator needs to be replaced?

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Nov 26, 2011 | 04:13 PM

Jettamethis

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How can I tell if my alternator needs to be replaced?

Hi folks. New to the forum...

And if it needs to replace replaced, is there a DYI on it in this forum?

Thanks.

J

Nov 26, 2011 | 04:38 PM

Mike Atkisson

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From: Tucson, AZ

Check the battery with a multimeter while the car is running. Should see somewhere around 13 or 14 volts. If under 12V while running, alternator is not charging.

Nov 27, 2011 | 06:10 AM

imncrxtc

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with the car running...pull the positive lead off the battery, if the car dies, you need an alternator.

Nov 27, 2011 | 09:57 AM

84gtguy

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if you take it off napa and most chain auto parts stores test them for free. if you need 1 let me know. i have a used 1.

Dec 17, 2011 | 11:42 PM

fincher

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I Would make sure your ground cable hasn't come loose or isnt extremely corroded.

Dec 18, 2011 | 08:18 AM

Loudgoldwing

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+1 on fincher's opinion. I was ready to drop the $ on replacing my alternator, too. I was going to remove the alternator to have it tested, so I needed to disconnect the battery. But when I went to disconnect the battery, I noticed that the lead (+) post terminal was cracked almost all the way through, and I could lift the (+) cable off the battery post without loosening the nut.

$3 spent on a new lead battery cable terminal clamp, and I was good to go.