Your Vehicle: 2001 Ford Escort ZX2 L4-2.0L DOHC VIN 3
 
Vehicle » Starting and Charging » Charging System » Alternator » Testing and Inspection » Generator Testing » Generator On - Vehicle Tests  
 
 
  Generator On - Vehicle Tests  
 

NOTE: Battery posts and cable clamps must be clean and tight to ensure accurate meter indications.

When performing charging system tests, turn off all lamps and electrical components. Place transmission in NEUTRAL and apply parking brake.

Charging System Testing - ARBST Method

  1. Connect the positive and negative leads of the ARBST to the battery terminals.
  2. Remove the gray amp probe from any conductor and press ZERO AMPS .
  3. Connect the gray amp probe around the battery ground cable(s) so that the arrow on the probe points toward the battery.

NOTE: The gray amp probe MUST be secured around all wires connected to the vehicle negative battery terminal.

  1. Start the vehicle engine.
  2. Press CHARGING SYSTEM TEST.

NOTE: The display must indicate the correct number of cylinders for the RPM reading to be accurate. The ARBST will automatically default to 4 cyl. To change the number of cylinders, press the appropriate number on the numeric keypad.

  1. Follow the screen prompt and adjust the RPM as directed. The ARBST will load and unload the charging system under various conditions.
  2. Read the results, press CONTINUE to toggle between REGULATOR VOLTS, PEAK AMPS and DIODE CONDITION.

NOTE: If the amperage remains higher than 20 amps during the test, an asterisk (*) appears near regulated volts on the display. Regulated volts are probably lower than normal because charging current was very high.

  

  1. Generator output should be greater than shown on the graph. If routed here from a pinpoint test, return to the pinpoint test. If not, refer to Symptom Chart for diagnostic procedures. See: Testing and Inspection\Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures