97 Honda CRV Alternator Problems

1997 HONDA CRV
150,000 MILES
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DOM22
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Hey, I've got a huge problem here. I'll just describe what happened in detail:

I was driving down the road, and the radio kept cutting out then back on. It finally went out for good, and then I noticed my lights were dimming. My speedometer stopped reading and then all lights when out and my car stopped moving. I couldn't even change gears.

Tried to jump it, but as soon as I disconnected the cable it stopped and the lights faded.

So, I know it has to be something with the alternator, right? But is it certain? And how can I check? The other day I thought I may have smelled burning rubber, but I thought it coulda been someone else's car. Is it possible it could be the belt? I don't know much about cars and I couldn't even tell you what an alternator looks like... haha.

Any help would be much appreciated.

Thank you guys in advance!
Nov 14, 2010 at 4:14 AM
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RASMATAZ
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Bring the alternator in and get it load tested-start here
Nov 14, 2010 at 4:23 AM
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DOM22
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Bring it in? There's no way to do it myself without taking the car apart?
Nov 14, 2010 at 4:24 AM
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CARADIODOC
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It will take more than a jump start to keep your engine running. If the battery is good but drained, you will have to charge it for an hour or two on a low setting. After that, use an inexpensive digital voltmeter to measure battery voltage, (with the charger removed or turned off). Hope to find very near 12.6 volts. If it is down around 11.0 volts or less, suspect a shorted cell in the battery.

If you do find 12.6 volts, the engine should start and run fine. At that point, measure battery voltage again while the engine is running. You must find between 13.75 and 14.75 volts. If it is low, suspect a defective generator. Many auto parts stores will test them for free.

caradiodoc
Nov 14, 2010 at 4:24 AM