Special Tools Required

Alternator, Regulator, Battery & Starter tester OTC3131

Available through the Honda Tool and Equipment Program 888-424-6857

1. Make sure the battery connections are good and the battery is sufficiently charged (see BATTERY TEST ).
2. Connect the alternator, regulator, battery & starter tester (OTC3131) to the battery as shown below.
   NOTE: The probe is used for alternator testing.
   Fig 1: Identifying Alternator, Regulator, Battery & Starter Tester (OTC3131)

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
3. Start the engine. Hold the engine speed at 3,000 rpm with no load (in N or P (A/T model) or neutral (M/T model)) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
4. Do the CHARGING SYSTEM TEST.

   Does the display indicate the voltage is within 13.5-15.1 V and the amperage is 87.5 A or more? 

   YES  - Go to step  5.

   NO  - If the voltage is less than 13.5 V, go to ALTERNATOR CONTROL CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING  . If the voltage is over 15.1 V and amperage is less than 87.5 A, replace the alternator (see ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION  ) or repair the alternator (see ALTERNATOR OVERHAUL  )

5. Check the diode condition on the display.

   Does the display indicate GOOD? 

   YES  - The diode is OK. Troubleshooting is complete.

   NO  - If the display indicates BAD, replace the alternator (see ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION  or repair the alternator (see ALTERNATOR OVERHAUL  ), then retest. If the display indicates N/A, the diode pattern could not be diagnosed. Repeat the test