Just hold the plug wire and pull the starter, you'll know if it's good.
Full fielding is a diagnostic test of the alternator You make the alternator work full out and measure the voltage and amperage output to test it against a published specification.
If the alternator output is too high, there is something wrong with the regulator. Often, the regulator is part of the alternator. There could also be issues with wiring. It is necessary to test carefully, following the manufacturer's diagnostic procedure.
I have a 2.0 1995 Mercury mystique the battery charge light was on no output on old alternator. Replaced alternator No output from new alternator "charge light out" (wiggle test wires& re-check wires) at alternator *still no output* is there a fuse that could be the problem or just another bad alternator... I would check the alternator plug before getting another alternator, it may be bad. And is a lot cheaper to replace.
I use a Digital Volt/ohm meter and test the output of the alternator at the battery or at the main output terminal of the alt. If I'm still in doubt i pull the alt and have it tested at Autozone for free.
Output of the alternator is controlled by the voltage regulator.
Rated output 135 amp, load test output 94 amp - this is assuming stock alternator, replacement alternators vary as some rebuilders mix and match parts...
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There are times when the alternator will test out fine as far as amp output and voltage output but if your alternator has a weak diode(s) it may trigger the light to go on. I hate to say you should replace the alternator, but your charging system is pretty much self contained in your alternator so I believe the problem is in fact in your alternator. Good luck.
A vehicle may not run if the battery cables are disconnected with or without a bad alternator. The best way to test an alternator is by voltage output when applying a load.
Start the car and while it is running, disconnect the positive cable from the battery. If the car stalls, the alternator is bad.
Leave battery lead to alternator connected, disconnect other leads. Run car and check output at these two leads. Should be 14-16 Volts.
i would think it should put out from 12 to 15 volts.you will need to check output also with lights on an if it drops in voltage you probably have a bad alternator,most auto parts stores can test the system for you.