Battery and Alternator Tester

[Gebo]

I want something to test my battery and alternator and my overall charging system. What do some of experienced guys recommend? Any particular brand? Not so worried about price.


I know how to use a voltmeter to check battery (12.6) and alternator (14.4) but I'd like to know as they are wearing out but not dead.

 

[Trav]

For a quick and dirty test I use this, its a lot easier than some other tools and does a decent job.

https://www.amazon.com/BA9-40-1200-Digital-Battery-System/dp/B00IZFNJ6Y?th=1

 

[Audios]

I have an older Snap on Dtac that is amazing for testing and charging. Mine was about 1000$ used 8 years ago, so probably cheaper by now, although the rebuilds are almost 400$. This one actually puts a heavy load on the system to test, as opposed to the midtronics that "digitally analyzes" it with no real load up.

 

[StevieC]

Smart or Dumb charging system?

Dumb charging system use a load tester (better than all accessories on) and a volt meter, and amp-clamp type meter is also helpful.

Smart charging system use a scan-tool, an amp clamp type meter and a load tester although you can get away with just accessories on provided you have the amp-clamp and scan-tool because you can see commanded duty cycle and actual duty cycle and volts.

 

[joegreen]

Look for a used snap on. Can be had for around $250

 

[atikovi]

http://www.midtronics.com/shop/products-1/battery-and-electrical-system-diagnostics is probably the leading brand. You can find them used on Ebay sometimes.

 

[Donald]

Solar and Acel make ones in the under $100 range.

 

[MasterSolenoid]

I just ordered the Ancel BA101 Tester / Not received yet.
I wanted something simple and effective.

Manfacturer WebSite
http://www.anceldirect.com/products/2017/20170423/n2017042321244.html

YouTube Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhBWSvocMMQ

 

[Gebo]

Originally Posted by StevieC
Smart or Dumb charging system?

Dumb charging system use a load tester (better than all accessories on) and a volt meter, and amp-clamp type meter is also helpful.

Smart charging system use a scan-tool, an amp clamp type meter and a load tester although you can get away with just accessories on provided you have the amp-clamp and scan-tool because you can see commanded duty cycle and actual duty cycle and volts.

Originally Posted by StevieC
Smart or Dumb charging system?

Dumb charging system use a load tester (better than all accessories on) and a volt meter, and amp-clamp type meter is also helpful.

Smart charging system use a scan-tool, an amp clamp type meter and a load tester although you can get away with just accessories on provided you have the amp-clamp and scan-tool because you can see commanded duty cycle and actual duty cycle and volts.



Smart

 

[StevieC]

I've seen a lot of weird problems with charging systems and found this to be the most effective at figuring out the issue. Including A/C ripple test and voltage drop testing with the Multi-Meter.

 

[Gebo]

Thanks for all you advice. Considering value, I decided to go with the Solar BA9.

 

[Gebo]

Originally Posted by StevieC

I've seen a lot of weird problems with charging systems and found this to be the most effective at figuring out the issue. Including A/C ripple test and voltage drop testing with the Multi-Meter.


I am just starting to understand this. I'm hoping by the time I turn 80, I will have it mostly figured out.

 

[StevieC]

Gebo, by then they will have thought of new ways to make it even more complicated. Just look at the over engineering of the PCV valve in VW's.