hey guys,

how can i test to see if my alternator is working? no light comes on, but when i use my indicators the light flashes???????

many thanks
nicholas

with key on, the charge light should come on full brightness. when started it should go out completely, if this does not occur, you most likely have a fault with your charging system. check accross battery when car is running, use a volt meter, anywhere between 13 - 14.5 Volts is good.

Yes, best way is to test with Voltmeter (borrow one if necessary). Put a load on the running engine (turn on headlights). If the voltage drops below, you have a problem with the alternator.

So the charging light flashes when you put on the turn-signal indicators? Sounds like it might be a wiring problem, maybe the ground wire for the dash-gauge assembly is loose.

its supprising the number of electrical problems that are earth related.
Try cleaning all the earth contacts

ok here is the easy qwick way to test any car alternater... 1.} start your car, keep it running. 2.} pull the negative battery cable off from your car battery. "if your car dies, then your alternater is bad... "if your car stays running with no battery, your alternater is good" ... easy, and you dont need a volt meter.... ... ...

Well if you want to test you alternator that way, then be prepared to blow your alternator up, especially if you have fitted an internally regulated alternator. The battery is fitted primarily to start the car, but it also acts as a buffering device, to prevent voltage spikes.

100% like Dattodevil said, if you check your alternator like that, yeah you will definately see if its charging or not but eventyally you will be replacing it because you have stuffed the regulator

Another low-tech way to test (though not very accurate) is the screw-driver test: Hold a screw driver close to the back center bearing of the alternator. If it is drawn to the bearing housing with a magnetic pull, it is charging.