Note: Before you begin, please read the warnings in the section again "Safety first!" and in section 1 this chapter.
1. If the ignition indicator light does not come on when the ignition is turned on, first check the reliability of the generator wiring connections. If the wiring is OK, check whether the indicator light has burned out and whether the bulb socket is securely fastened to the instrument panel. If the indicator light still does not come on, check the integrity of the indicator wire from the generator to the bulb socket. If everything is OK, then the generator is faulty - it should be replaced or taken to an auto electrician for inspection and repair.
2. If the ignition indicator light continues to light after the engine is started, turn off the engine and check if the alternator drive belt is properly tensioned (see chapter 1) and whether the wires are securely connected to the generator. If all this is in order, take the generator to an auto electrician for inspection and repair.
3. If the indicator light works normally but the generator operation is questionable, its output voltage should be checked as follows.
4. Connect a voltmeter to the battery terminals and start the engine.
5. Increase the engine speed until the voltmeter readings become stable: the voltmeter should show from 12 to 13 V and not higher than 14 V.
6. Turn on as many electrical devices in the car as possible: headlights, rear window heater, blower fan, etc. and check if the alternator maintains a regulated voltage between 13 and 14 V.
7. If the regulated voltage does not correspond to the specified one, the reasons for the malfunction may be wear of the brushes, weakening of the brush springs, malfunction of the voltage regulator, defective diode, breakage of the phase winding, wear or damage of the collector rings. Replace the generator or give it to an auto electrician for inspection and repair.