Checking an alternator

[Graham-P]

Is there a quick way to check if an alternator is ok, not on the car?
I'm having a garage clear out to make more room when the car returns from a refresh and before I put stuff up for sale I want to make sure it's all good. It's surprising what lurks at the back of the garage plus how much more room you get when you organise things!

Graham

[Storer]

Could you spin it with a drill while checking the output with a meter (probably need to connect it to a battery). Should be about 14.4v

Good idea to have a clear out and it may benefit others to have access to some of your unwanted parts.


Paul

[Nabbott]

Unlikely that that would work - if it's a typical three wire alternator it needs an 'exciter' wire to complete the circuit.