Charging System

2004 HONDA CIVIC
175,000 MILES
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PERUMK4
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Car died while my sister was driving to work. I jumped started the car and took it to a automotive store. They charged the battery and said the battery was good. The car made it to her house about two miles and would not start the next day. She had her neighbor jumpstart the car and took it back to the autoparts store where the tested the alternator and battery while in the car. There test indicated the alternator was not charging properly. I removed the alternator and had it tested while out of the vehicle. The alternator tested just fine.

I noticed while removing the alternator there was a large 14mm bolt on top of the alternator contacting the alternator it was practically fallig out. I tightened the bolt. I then noticed the belt for the alternator was extrememly worn and cracked practically all the way through. I replaced the belts reconnected the alternator. Replaced the negative ground wire, which was missing the bottom half o fthe insulation and was extremely corroded on the battery. I checked the fuses for the alternator and the main fuse. They are all in proper working order.

I then had the battery tested again since it was not holding a charge and was corroding the negative terminal again. the battery tested in good condition. The civic is still not holding a charge. Any suggestions?

Is there a simple way to check for a power drain?
Dec 30, 2011 at 6:19 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
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SATURNTECH9
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Did you replace the negative battery cable?Is the alternator charging now?Do you have a multimeter to do some testing?
Dec 30, 2011 at 6:25 PM
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KHLOW2008
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Ensure there is continuity for the wire between the alternator main post and battery terminal. If there is a break in continuity, it could mean a bad connection somewhere or a bad main fuse.
Dec 30, 2011 at 7:15 PM
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PERUMK4
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@ saturntech9. I have replaced the negative (ground wire) to the battery with an new OEM. I cheked and the Alternator is charging fine. I also found the tensioner bolt on the alternator was completely missing, I have replaced that bolt. I do not have a multimeter but I am sure I can borrow one.

@KHLow2008. As soon as I get my hands on a mutlimeter I will test for continuity. However since it is charging I would assume there is continuity.
Dec 30, 2011 at 8:23 PM
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KHLOW2008
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If you tested the charging between battery terminals then yes, the continuity is good.

Dec 30, 2011 at 9:12 PM
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SATURNTECH9
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The alternator is charging then you have to check for excessive draw.
Dec 31, 2011 at 4:13 AM