1991 Eagle Summit new alternator not working

RAMZA666

MEMBER
1991 EAGLE SUMMIT
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

Just bought a new alternator, had a little trouble attaching the metal band to the post on the alternator cause it was in a slightly different location.
however I got it installed, with all the plugs on and when I jump the car, it dies in 10 minutes, or less if I turn on the lights. I am at a loss

5 Replies

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

HI there,

With the engine running, check the Voltage at the main alternator terminal, check it with the car at around 1500 RPM, report back the reading for more advice.

Mark (mhpautos)

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Wednesday, December 3rd, 2008 AT 3:34 PM

RAMZA666

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5 POSTS

Which is the main terminal

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Wednesday, December 3rd, 2008 AT 3:36 PM

RAMZA666

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5 POSTS

I dont have a voltage tester.

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Wednesday, December 3rd, 2008 AT 3:47 PM

RAMZA666

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When I jump the car, and let it run, I believe that if the alternator was functioning it should run without the battery. However when I remove the battery cable, the car dies. Does this mean that my alternator is installed incorrectly?

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Wednesday, December 3rd, 2008 AT 4:04 PM

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

HI there,

You should never run the engine with the battery disconnected, you can cook the ECU so easily and do other electrical damage, but as you have done so, it only shows that the battery voltage is enough to run the required systems, you will need to get the alternator readings so I can sort out your problem.
Mark (mhpautos)