Question

Technician A says a no-load voltage reading of 0.5-2 volts higher than the base voltage is normal. Technician B says is no-lead voltage is more than 2-3 volts higher than base voltage, the alternator is overcharging the battery. Who is right?

Answer 1

Both Technician A and Technician B are correct; a no-load voltage reading of 0.5-2 volts above base voltage is normal, while a no-load voltage more than 2-3 volts higher suggests overcharging.

Step-by-step explanation:

When discussing the voltage of an alternator in relation to a battery, it's important to understand the expected voltage readings. Technician A states that a no-load voltage reading of 0.5-2 volts higher than the base voltage is normal. This is indeed correct, as the no-load voltage is typically slightly higher due to the absence of a significant electrical load, which would otherwise draw some of the voltage down.

Technician B suggests that an alternator is overcharging if the no-load voltage is more than 2-3 volts higher than the base voltage. This also tends to be true, as it indicates that the voltage regulator within the alternator may not be functioning correctly, potentially leading to battery damage due to overcharging.

In conclusion, both Technician A and Technician B are right within the contexts of their statements, addressing the normal and excessive ranges for an alternator's no-load voltage as compared to the base voltage.