Checking the 6VD1-W engine generator (Opel Frontera B)

During the testing process, the generator power and the functioning of the voltage regulator are measured, and the operation of the voltage regulator must be checked first.

Note: The generator can be tested on the vehicle or after the generator has been removed.

Security measures

When testing the generator, observe the following safety precautions:

• The negative terminal of the battery, generator and voltage regulator must be matched.
• Prevent the generator from operating with an open electrical circuit.
• Eliminate short circuits between the generator and voltage regulator terminals.
• When connecting the generator, do not reverse the polarity.

Checking the voltage regulator

The purpose of this test is to verify that the electronic voltage regulator maintains the generated voltage at the required level.

Connect a voltmeter to the generator L terminal and ground, then start the engine and let it run at about 3000 rpm.

Turn off all electrical consumers.

Check the voltage shown by the voltmeter. If voltage exceeds 16V, repair or replace the alternator.

Checking the current generated by the generator

This test determines whether the generator produces a current that is equivalent to its rated power.

Connect a voltmeter to the generator L terminal and ground.

Disconnect the wire from the L terminal of the generator.

Connect a 0-150A DC ammeter in series between the L terminal and the wire disconnected from the generator. Make sure the negative probe of the ammeter is connected to the wire disconnected from the generator.

Note: Connect the wires and ammeter probes very securely as a large current will flow through the circuit.

Start the engine.

Turn on the high beam headlights and the heater fan to maximum air flow. Briefly increase the engine speed to 3000 min⁻¹ and read the values on the instruments, while the ammeter will show the current generated by the generator.

Note: After the engine starts, the battery charging current decreases very quickly, so this check must be performed very quickly.

The ammeter reading should exceed the limit value. If the current value is less than the limit value and the wire connecting the generator output is normal, remove the generator from the vehicle and check it.

Current generated by the generator: 75 A

Voltage: not less than 13 V

Notes:

• The maximum current value is indicated on the plate attached to the generator housing.
• The current produced by the generator depends on the temperature and load. Therefore, to obtain the maximum current value, partially discharge the battery, first turning on the headlights of the car with the engine off.
• The maximum current value produced by the generator cannot be obtained if the generator or ambient air temperature is too high.

Source is on the website: Opelbook.ru


After completing the generator current limit test, idle the engine and turn off the ignition.

Disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal.

Remove the voltmeter and ammeter.

Connect the wire to the L terminal of the generator.

Connect the cable to the negative terminal of the battery.