what causes spikes in alternator ripple

Last Updated on November 27, 2023 by Paganoto

Alternator AC Ripple/Diode Test – picoauto

Alternator AC Ripple/Diode Test – picoauto

Sharp spikes, usually downward, between the pulses indicate diode failure and the presence of unrectified AC voltage in the circuitry. The alternator output will vary with engine speed and electrical load. However, a consistent ripple must be maintained throughout these variations.

Alternator ripple, what is normal? – Pico Technology – picoauto

Alternator ripple, what is normal? – Pico Technology – picoauto

One such a spike with a shorter time scale: alternator_spike.png … I suspect the random high frequency noise is caused by the diodes.

Alternator Ripple Effect – MOTOR

Alternator Ripple Effect – MOTOR

A legitimate rectifier or stator failure always causes obvious, repetitive changes in the pattern.

Random AC spikes from alternator? | Bob Is The Oil Guy

Random AC spikes from alternator? | Bob Is The Oil Guy

Spikes are usually caused by issues in the windings or diodes. It is best to use a scope to check the ripple.

Alternator Ripple Test Help – ScannerDanner Forum

Alternator Ripple Test Help – ScannerDanner Forum

The spike on it is from an ignition firing event. In this case voltage spikes are from ignition firing events.

What Is Excessive Alternator Voltage Ripple? – Somsubhra

What Is Excessive Alternator Voltage Ripple? – Somsubhra

Computers and networks in vehicles used to cause flickering lights and maybe an ignition problem if an alternator was producing AC voltage or was rippled …

Too much AC in the DC Charging System RippleVoltage

Too much AC in the DC Charging System RippleVoltage

A bad diode will cause 33% of the alternator’s current output to be lost, something you can’t miss performing a load test.

Excessive ripple voltage… – Chevy Message Forum

Excessive ripple voltage… – Chevy Message Forum

If you are experiencing that much ripple, it is a bad diode. Maybe a little tutorial is in order. Alternators produce an AC output wave, then …

DIY- Alternator Test Using the "AC Ripple" Method – YouTube

DIY- Alternator Test Using the "AC Ripple" Method – YouTube

Alternator Ripple Testing: The Ghost in the Machine

Alternator Ripple Testing: The Ghost in the Machine

A dead or weak battery can throw off a ripple test, however, so you must make sure the battery is fully charged.