Alternator Load tests

[ENFORCER99]

Is it possible for an alternator to be load tested on a bench and come out good but still be a bad alternator?? my battery light flashes intermintently which points to the alternator(new battery and battery wiring installed) being bad but ive taken it off and it bench tested good... does this make sense?

[visualpoet]

I've had several alternators test good on the bench that were actually bad. Sometimes the problem doesn't show up until the alternator has been running for a while.

[ENFORCER99]

so does that mean alternator load testing kinda like a hoax?? that seems to be the first thing people say to do when somethings wrong, go bench check the alternator, but if it can be bad and test good what gives?

[90Haccord]

I've always heard alternator load testing is a HOAX.


Hell some alternators dont provide hardly any amperage at IDLE.

Also some "smart" alternators that only provide power based on the car's needs.

[ENFORCER99]

good to know, now for another question, ill just go buy a remanf. Alt causes there cheaper are all remanfactured alternators created equal
I have Kragen auto parts -Beck/Arnley and Reman Alternators

Napa Auto parts-Bosch/ Reman??

Autozone - duralast

Advance Auto parts - bosch- Denso(whats in my car) - worldwide(cheapest)

[Nas92]

how do you know if you need a new batt or a new alt.