
Check the Diodes
The following test equipment is essential for correctly testing the diodes:
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DC output diode tester that does not exceed 14 volts output at the test probes.
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Multimeter with a diode test feature that does not exceed 14 volts output at the test probes.
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AC tester rated at 12 volts RMS. This ensures that the forward and reverse voltage checks are not incorrect
due to Zener breakdown.
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Zener diode tester with a DC output in excess of 30 volts. This should incorporate internal current lim iting of 5
mA to prevent high currents during testing.
NOTE 1: The rectifier assembly is not repairable and should be replaced if any diodes are faulty.
NOTE 2: Complete steps 1 to 5 before the Zener voltage of each diode is tested.
1. Attach the negative probe to the positive
heatsink (1) of the rectifier assembly.
2. Attach the positive probe to each pos itive diode
(2) in turn.
3. Check for a low resistance reading or the
forward voltage drop across the diode.
4. Reverse the probe connections and again test
each diode in turn.
5. Check for a high resistance reading or higher
reverse voltage.
6. Repeat the test to ensure that c urrent is able to
flow in one direction only.
7. Repeat the above procedure on the negative
heatsink (3).
8. Attach the positive test probe to the negative
heatsink of the rectifier assembly.
Figure 6D1-1B-19
9. Attach the negative probe to the negative diode connections.
10. Check for a low resistance reading or the forward voltage drop across the diode.
11. Reverse the probe connections and again test each diode in turn.
12. Check for a high resistance reading or higher reverse voltage.
13. Repeat the test to ensure that current is able to flow in one direction only.
NOTE: When using an AC tester in steps 1 to 5, ens ure that the rever se voltage applied is les s than 14 volts DC or
12 volts RMS.
14. Identify the Zener voltage of each diode. (Refer to the numbers on the base of each diode.)
NOTE: All diodes within a rectifier must have the same Zener voltage.
IMPORTANT: The recommended Zener tester is: Durst model 600 with five mA test current (Bosch approved).
15. Test the Zener voltage (reverse bias) of the positive diodes, as follows:
a. Connect the positive lead to the positive heat sink.
Connect the negative lead of the tester to each positive diode in turn.
Gradually increase the test voltage from the Zener diode tester and read Zener breakdown voltage.
NOTE: Ensure that the tester is current limited to five mA.
16. Check that the voltage reading is steady; it should not increase with increased voltage.
17. Test the Zener voltage (reverse bias) of the negative diodes, as follows:
a. Connect the positive lead to the negative heat sink.
b. Connect the negative lead of the tester to each negative diode in turn.
18. Replace the rectifier assembly as necessary.
Check the Rotor
1. Clean any dirt or particles from the rotor with compressed air and/or a clean cloth.