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Engine battery charging

Yahoo Message Number: 90475
I am having a problem with my alternator. It is not charging.
If I run the generator will the Invertor/Charger provide 12 V charge to the engine battery temporarily (about 200 miles) until I can get the alternator replaced? Daron Hairabedian, 98 Allure, 30226

Re: Engine battery charging

Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 90476
Daron,

Yes. The generator will work just fine. I have done that on two of my coaches.
My most recent alternator failure was due to the breaking of a crimp on lug. My alternator has a wire from the ignition which switches the alternator on. The connector lug at the alt broke probably from vibration. I crimped a new one on and attached to alternator connection. Alternator works again.

Good luck.

George in Birmingham(still in Santa Fe) '03 Magna 6298
George in Birmingham
2003 Magna 6298

Re: Engine battery charging

Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 90483
George,

Thanks for the tip.

I just now went out and checked all of the connections with a mirror. They all seem to be in tact. But, now you have me thinking. I wonder if there is a short somewhere in the circuit between the ignition and that lug. Which one is it? What color? They are really hard to see on my Cummins, even with my long handled mirror. Do you know how to test it. Would I simply attach a volt meter positive lead to that lug or post, attach the other lead to ground, switch on the ignition key and see if I get a 12v reading on my meter? If I get no 12v power then, I have a short? Daron

Re: Engine battery charging

Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 90491
Daron,

That is exactly how I tested it. If no voltage with key on you have an open which may be a fuse. My circuit is protected with a fuse in the run bay. Don't know how yours is set up but the wire in mine is yellow.

George in Birmingham(still in Santa Fe) '03 Magna 6298
George in Birmingham
2003 Magna 6298
 

Re: Engine battery charging

Reply #4 –
Yahoo Message Number: 90562
George,

Thanks for your help. You were right. The graphic in my manual shows that the yellow wire goes to the ignition switch. I tested it today. I have 12 V at the post with the yellow wire when I turned the ignition key to the "on" position. So, that circuit is not the culprit.
At least I feel better that I have looked under all the rocks.
Daron