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.
If the light remains on then the system still isn't charging as it should. Check the plug on the alternator and also that the wires to the alt have a good connection.
Obviously check the battery. Anyway, if the alternator, battery, and wires connecting them are good the voltage regulator is next on the list.
battery and or alternator are shot, check alternator by starting the car, and removing either the positive or negative battery cable,,, if the vehicle continues to run the alternator is good.
If the alternator is good then the battery is bad.
There is something wrong with the charging system. Check the alternator and the battery to see if both are still good. Good Luck!
Start the truck then disconnect the battery if it's still running the alternator is good
take it to autozone and they will check it for free.
the alternator belt could be slipping so check the belt, the wiring at the alternator could be faulty do a check with a multimeter. open the alternator and check the diodes .apply battery power and see if the rotor still spins inside the stator see current output
Yes. an alternator can be good but you can still have charging problems if:- 1.Battery is no good. 2.Fan belt slack or worn. 3.Poor or broken wiring connections at alternator. 4.Loose or dirty battery conections. 5.poor or broken wiring between alternator and battery. 6.Alternator rating not large enough for application.
The easiest of all ways to check if your alternator is working is. Turn your car on and disconnect the negative battery cable. If your car dies your alternator is no good. But if it stays on. the alternator is generating power. its basically your cars power plant.
check your battery ground and your alternator ground
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.