How to Test Alternator Voltage Output (AutoUpkeep.com)
After watching this video, you will be able to safety test alternator voltage output. This test can be completed using a basic multimeter (~$25 ...
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Battery basic information
A car battery is but one part of a vehicle’s starting and charging system. The primary function of the automobile battery is to store electrical energy. This energy comes into play when the ignition key is turned and the starter is triggered into action. The battery merely stores enough electrical energy to turn the engine over and create the electrical spark required to ignite the air-fuel mixture inside the cylinders. Once the engine is running, the alternator takes over. A pulley connected to the engine crankshaft drives a belt that spins another pulley on the alternator. In this way the alternator produces electricity while the engine is running. This electricity is used to keep the ignition flame alive, and to run the lights, windshield wipers, and other electric-powered and electronic accessories. The voltage regulator directs the alternator to distribute an amount of electricity to the battery so the energy will be there in wait to start the engine next time around. The battery works on its own during engine startup and together with the charging system while the vehicle is running. Thanks to the car battery, the whole process can start over the next time the ignition key is turned.
The lead-acid car battery under the hood of a modern automobile shares the same basic design with the lead-acid battery that was first used to turn over the engine of a production Cadillac in the year 1912. Suspended inside the plastic shell of the battery are lead plates coated with particular metals. These lead plates and metals chemically react with the battery acid, or electrolyte solution, to store and produce electricity. As the battery charges during driving some electrolyte vapor vents out of the plastic shell along with a bit of hydrogen. This vapor can cause corrosion to form around the battery terminals and posts along with causing bad things to happen under the battery tray. Corrosion on the posts and terminals can eventually interrupt the flow of electricity into the battery. Electrolyte levels can drop as the solution evaporates over time and leave the battery unable to properly hold a charge. Basic battery maintenance such as cleaning and lubricating the battery posts and terminals along with regularly checking battery electrolyte levels and condition will help keep a lid on these battery problems.
