Alternator Ripple
#1
Registered!!
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jun 2018
Age: 46
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Rep Power: 0 Alternator Ripple
1999 Honda Civic VP.183K. I occasional see flickering in my head lights, dash lights and cabin lightsr. I scoped the output of my alternator. How much ripple is expected. Below is the ripple seen on my alternator.
#2
If you think a good mechanic is expensive, try hiring a bad one
Re: Alternator Ripple
SOME ripple is typical and might vary depending on battery condition and connections (the battery acts like a huge capacitor to help absorb some of the AC voltage)
Your concern is about the lights flickering. Forget the ripple for now. You need to monitor system voltage to see what's happening as the lights get bright and dim.
Some flicker is really normal due to ELD, but if voltage swings far above normal charging voltage or far below battery voltage you may have something to work with. Also at 180k the alt might be past its prime.
Your concern is about the lights flickering. Forget the ripple for now. You need to monitor system voltage to see what's happening as the lights get bright and dim.
Some flicker is really normal due to ELD, but if voltage swings far above normal charging voltage or far below battery voltage you may have something to work with. Also at 180k the alt might be past its prime.
Thread
Thread Starter
Honda Civic Forum
Replies
Last Post
Strahl
Mechanical Problems/Vehicle Issues and Fix-it Forum
4
10-25-2010 11:26 PM
2003civicex5spd
Mechanical Problems/Vehicle Issues and Fix-it Forum
3
11-20-2006 12:06 AM
roger t
Mechanical Problems/Vehicle Issues and Fix-it Forum
5
08-07-2005 02:38 PM
Derek-CEO
I.C.E. (Audio) & Electrical Upgrades
6
05-05-2002 02:08 AM