bad diode

1998 MERCURY SABLE
6 CYL
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TOM411
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I've beeb reading that a bad diode reading on a test meter may be the result of dirty battery connections.could you please tell me if this is true and may there be other causes for this reading besides a bad diode
Feb 10, 2011 at 4:07 PM
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WRENCHTECH
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What reading are you referring to? Where are you reading this.
Feb 10, 2011 at 5:52 PM
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TOM411
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It was in eHow. testing the alternator diodes. When I took the car to auto zone the tech put an auto mart test meter on the battery he said the alt was putting out 14 volts but showed a bad diode
Feb 10, 2011 at 6:11 PM
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WRENCHTECH
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If the test says it has a bad diode, then it has a bad diode and it needs a new alternator. This can cause the alternator to draw your battery down when parked.
Feb 10, 2011 at 6:18 PM
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TOM411
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Is replacing the alternator something I can take on myself or do I need a professional .And THANKYOU WRENCHTECH for helping me today
Feb 10, 2011 at 6:38 PM
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WRENCHTECH
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I have no idea of the extent of you knowledge, ability or tools so that's not a question I can answer.
Feb 10, 2011 at 6:41 PM