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HOMESERVICE MANUALSMAZDA2008TRIBUTE S SPORT, 4WDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 408 (CHARGING SYSTEM)GENERATOR INSPECTIONCURRENT
2008 Mazda Tribute s Sport, 4WD

Generator Inspection: Current

2008 Mazda Tribute s Sport, 4WDSECTION Current
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda MPV. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Verify that the battery is fully charged.
    • Charge if necessary.
  2. Verify that the drive belt deflection/tension is correct. (See DRIVE BELT INSPECTION .)
    • Replace if necessary.
  3. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  4. Connect an ammeter, capable of reading 120 A or above, between generator terminal B and the wiring harness.
  5. Connect the negative battery cable.
  6. Turn off all electrical loads.
  7. Start the engine and increase the engine speed to 2,000-2,500 rpm.
  8. Turn the following electrical loads on and verify that the current reading increases.
    1. Headlights
    2. Blower motor
    3. Rear window defroster
      • If generator terminal B current will not increase, repair or replace the generator as necessary.
      NOTE:
      • Current required for generating power varies with electrical loads applied.

      Standard current (Reference) 

      1. Measuring conditions 
        1. Room temperature: 20 °C {68 °F} 
        2. Voltage: 13.5 V 
        3. Engine hot 
      ENGINE SPEED SPECIFICATION

      Engine speed (rpm) Terminal B current (A)
      1,000 0 (1)-90
      2,000 0 (1)-105
      (1) Lower limit of current must be more than 0 A.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.