Philip,
if you disconnect an alternator, it will not generate any current, and so,
when you test it, you will get zero volts.
ALternators need an input supply to start them. In most cars, this is the
current that lights the 'ignition' light. When the alternator generates its
own current, the voltages on either side of the ignition light are the same
and the light goes out.
Hence on many cars, if the ignition bulb fails, the alternator never
charges the battery.
Simon
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Simon Matthews MailTo:simon_matthews@avanticorp.com
'57 MGA
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