Chrysler Neon PL 1997, Manual

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performed at each (- ground) connection in this cir-
cuit to locate the excessive resistance.
(7) Testing (+ positive) circuitry:
(a) Touch the positive lead of voltmeter directly
to battery negative POST .
(b) Touch the negative lead of voltmeter to the
ground terminal stud on the generator case (not
the terminal mounting nut). Voltage should be no
higher than 0.3 volts. If voltage is higher than 0.3
volts, touch test lead to terminal mounting stud
nut and then to the wiring connector. If voltage is
now below 0.3 volts, look for dirty, loose or poor
connection at this point. A voltage drop test may be
performed at each (+ positive) connection in this
circuit to locate the excessive resistance. This test
can also be performed between the generator case
and the engine. If test voltage is higher than 0.3
volts, check for corrosion at generator mounting
points or loose generator mounting.
CURRENT OUTPUT TEST
The current output test will determine if the
charging system can deliver its minimum test cur-
rent (amperage) output. Refer to the Specifications
section at the end of this group for minimum test
current (amperage) requirements.
The first part of this test will determine the com-
bined amperage output of both the generator and the
Electronic Voltage Regulator (EVR) circuitry.
PREPARATION
(1) Determine if any Diagnostic Trouble Codes
(DTC) exist. To determine a DTC, refer to On-Board
Diagnostics in this group. For repair, refer to the
appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures man-
ual.
(2) Before starting test, make sure battery is in
good condition and is fully-charged. See Group 8A,
Battery for more information.
(3) Check condition of battery cables at battery.
Clean if necessary.
(4) Perform the previous Output Wire Resistance
Test (voltage drop test) (Fig. 5). This will ensure
clean and tight generator/battery electrical connec-
tions.
(5) Be sure the generator drive belt is properly
tensioned. Refer to Group 7, Cooling System for
information.
(6) A volt/amp tester equipped with both a battery
load control (carbon pile rheostat) and an inductive-
type pickup clamp (ammeter probe) will be used for
this test. Refer to operating instructions supplied
with tester. When using a tester equipped with an
inductive-type clamp, removal of wiring at the gener-
ator will not be necessary.
(7) Start the engine and allow it to reach operating
temperature.
(8) Shut engine off.
(9) Turn off all electrical accessories and all vehicle
lighting.
(10) Connect the volt/amp tester leads to the bat-
tery. Be sure the carbon pile rheostat control is in the
OPEN or OFF position before connecting leads. See
Load Test in Group 8A, Battery for more information.
Also refer to the operating instructions supplied with
test equipment.
(11) Connect the inductive clamp (ammeter probe).
Refer to the operating instructions supplied with test
equipment.
(12) If volt/amp tester is not equipped with an
engine tachometer, connect a separate tachometer to
the engine.
TEST
(1) Perform the previous test Preparation.
(2) Fully engage the parking brake.
(3) Start engine.
(4) Bring engine speed to 2500 rpm.
(5) With engine speed held at 2500 rpm, slowly
adjust the rheostat control (load) on the tester to
obtain the highest amperage reading. Do not allow
voltage to drop below 12 volts. Record the reading.
This load test must be performed within 15 sec-
onds to prevent damage to test equipment. On
certain brands of test equipment, this load will be
applied automatically. Refer to the operating manual
supplied with test equipment.
(6) The ammeter reading must meet the Minimum
Test Amps specifications as displayed in the Genera-
tor Ratings chart. This can be found in the Specifica-
tions section at the end of this group. A label stating
a part reference number is attached to the generator
case. On some engines this label may be located on
the bottom of the case. Compare this reference num-
ber to the Generator Ratings chart.
(7) Rotate the load control to the OFF position.
(8) Continue holding engine speed at 2500. If EVR
circuitry is OK, amperage should drop below 15–20
amps. With all electrical accessories and vehicle
lighting off, this could take several minutes of engine
operation. If amperage did not drop, refer to the
appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures man-
ual for testing.
(9) Remove volt/amp tester.
If minimum amperage could not be met, refer to
the appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures
manual for testing.
8C - 8 CHARGING SYSTEM
PL
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)