94 Cutlass Cierra alternator

[bradleyforrest]

So my charge light came on yesterday and my battery is only about 2 years old, but I don't know how old my alternator is, so I'm inclined to believe that it's my alternator. The thing that bothers me is that the light came on while I was driving, but I didn't see or feel a difference in the car's performance. The lights aren't dimmed, the car's revving fine, I have full normal power.

In other words, the light's the only symptom of a problem.

Anyway, what should I do to find out the root of the problem? Could the alternator just be on it's way out, but it's still doing it's job in a diminished capacity?

Thanks.

[Mrbizness1]

If you have a strong battery you may drive for a day or two and not notice a problem. For a few dollars you can buy a battery and alternator voltage tester. Using a tester will you help you isolate the problem and prevent you from changing parts that are still good

[carlos80]

you can also take it to Autozone or checkers and they can test your complete sys.you said you didn't notice a difference in your electrical sys this might indicate that the alt. is working but not to its full capacity in other words it has a low amp output but can still maintain normal voltage reading

an amp clamp, a decent one can run from $100 and up i think it's better if you take it and have it checked somewhere
like Mrbizness said though a multimeter would be a very wise investment

[victimizati0n]

it mostlikely isnt your alternator.....

The car would only run for up to an hour if it was running on just the battery.

[ChipChipChipaway]

If it does end up being your alternator you can defintley replace it yourself.. A couple bolts and some elbow grease on the top pulley (will give enough to put the belt back on ) and you will be good. It will save you a bunch of money. You should be able to find a deal for less than $100