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Test A: Charging System Malfunction

  1. Start engine and measure battery voltage. If battery voltage is 13-15 volts, problem is intermittent. Check for loose connections. If battery voltage is not 13-15 volts, go to next step.
  2. Turn engine off and inspect accessory drive belt condition. Replace drive belt as necessary and retest system operation. If belt is okay, go to next step.
  3. Inspect generator connectors and generator mounting for looseness or corrosion. Repair as necessary and retest system operation. If connections and mounting are okay, go to next step.
  4. Inspect battery cables for clean and tight connections at battery. Repair as necessary and retest system operation. If connections are okay, go to next step.
  5. Verify battery condition. Load test battery at one-half rated amperage for 15 seconds. If battery is okay, go to next step. If battery voltage drops to less than 9.6 volts, charge and retest system operation. If battery voltage still drops to less than 9.6 volts, replace battery and retest system operation.
  6. Turn ignition off. Disconnect generator 3-pin connector. Measure voltage between ground and Orange/Light Blue wire terminal at 3-pin connector. If battery voltage is present, go to next step. If battery voltage is not present, inspect circuit for open (including fusible links). See WIRING DIAGRAMS  .
  7. Reconnect generator 3-pin connector. Measure voltage of Yellow/White wire at generator terminal B+. If battery voltage is present, go to next step. If battery voltage is not present, inspect circuit for open (including fusible links). See WIRING DIAGRAMS  .
  8. Check generator output. Perform LOAD TEST  and NO-LOAD TEST  under ON-VEHICLE TESTING. If generator is okay, check system for intermittent failure. If generator is not okay, continue diagnosis of PCM controlled charging system DTC P1246. See SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - EEC-V (GASOLINE) article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE.
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