First off, I was driving yesterday and I looked down to check my rpm's and noticed that the gauges were all not working then the car started sputtering and finally died. Conclusion, alternator went south . I got my room mate to come and boost me and the car started with ease but only lasted a couple of blocks. I have an extra alternator but am not sure if it's good. My question to you, is there a way to check to see if an alternator is good or not when it's NOT installed on the car? I checked my Haynes manual and found nothing. THanks..

Rick

 

I pretty sure if you bring it to an autoparts store they will have a machine in there that they can hook the alt up to and see if its good. Im not positive tho

 

You might call around and ask but yes most auto parts retailers
can do this for you..

You might as well charge and test the battery while you are at it..