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Old 12-15-2014, 02:38 PM   #1
Mini-Skoolie
 
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Join Date: Nov 2014
Location: Los Angeles
Posts: 35
Year: 1998
Coachwork: International
Chassis: Thomas
Engine: 5 speed Manual
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alternator question

Me and a friend just bought a medium sized Thomas with a T444e engine. We were able to drive it back from West Virginia without turning it off for very long because the batteries were bad and wouldn't really hold a charge. A few times we turned it off and were able to start it right up. After we left it over night it wouldn't start up though.

We purchased new batteries and it started right up and we drove it for a bit no problem there. My question is does anyone know about how to tell if the alternator is bad so that I don't drain the batteries and have to spring for new ones again?

We were told we could take it out and get it tested, is this a difficult thing?

Any advice would be great.

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Old 12-15-2014, 02:52 PM   #2
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Re: alternator question

Volt meter.
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Old 12-16-2014, 02:15 PM   #3
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Re: alternator question

Difficult? Not at all. You can do a basic test with a voltmeter to make sure that is charging. If you want to get more in depth and test the amperage output and diode health you'll need a load tester which any decent shop should have.
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