Got an electrical problem, and I need to figure out if it is the alternator or the battery. I've got a voltmeter, but don't know what setting to put it on, and where to test on the alternator. Any help would be great

 

tear it off and run to autozone (or any other parts place with testers) with it they can test right there for you. tough to judge any other way for free.

 

Sporky,
What exactly is the electrical problem you are experiencing? It sounds as if you're battery voltage is either causing you to need jump starts, or you've already past that stage, and it won't start at all. Am I close?

Start off by getting a voltage reading while cranking. Do this by having your test leads directly on the battery lugs first, then on the terminals.

First set the voltmeter to the DC setting. Next-assuming that it's a dial configuration-turn the dial to a range higher than what you're looking to measure. In this case, anything higher than 15V DC would be fine, but the lower you go, 20V vs. 50V for example, the more accurate reading you'll get--assuming it's analog. Now, take a voltage reading at the battery terminals. Next take a reading at the lugs of the battery (the cylinders that the terminals tighten down on). They should be the same (12.9-13.2 engine off, 13.8-14.7 engine running), if not, clean your battery terminals.
If voltage is the same at both test areas, and within limits, check the voltage at the (+) terminal at the alternator. It should be the same as the battery, if not, you have either a bad connection, bad wire, or a bad ground from the alternator to block, all of the previous increase resistance which reduces voltage. Also put your positive lead on the battery and the negative on the body of the alternator to check for good connections--both mechanical and electrical.
Keep us posted w/ results.

SL

 

Any luck?