How to Test for a Bad 1992 Dodge Stealth Alternator

The alternator on a 1992 Dodge Stealth creates electricity created by the spinning of the alternator pulley by the serpentine belt. When the alternator goes out, the battery will no longer be charged, and eventually, the Stealth won't be able to start or run. Fixing the problem requires replacing the alternator, but sometimes, it's not clear if the alternator is the problem. Sometimes a dead battery or blown fuse can make it appear like the alternator needs to be replaced. To be sure, you can test the alternator to find out.

Instructions

1. Pop the hood and locate the alternator on the engine block. Locate the large gauge cable running to the alternator.

2. Set the multimeter to read DC voltage. Place the black pin from the multimeter onto the negative terminal of the battery and the red pin onto the stud attached to the large gauge cable that you located in step 1.

3. Tell your assistant to start the car. Look at the multimeter and see what voltage it reads. If it's below 12 volts, then the alternator is not putting out enough voltage to charge the battery. If it's between 12 and 15 volts, then the alternator is charging correctly.