How to Bypass Computer Controlled Alternator

Modern cars have computer-controlled alternators that regulate the charging rate of the battery. However, in some cases, the computer may fail to signal the alternator to charge, causing the battery to drain. This can be a frustrating experience, especially when you are on a long trip and need to get back home. Fortunately, there are ways to bypass the computer-controlled alternator and charge the battery manually. In this article, we will discuss some of the methods you can use to bypass the computer-controlled alternator.

Method 1: External Voltage Regulator

One of the most common ways to bypass the computer-controlled alternator is to install an external voltage regulator. This method is particularly useful for older cars that do not have a computer-controlled alternator. To install an external voltage regulator, you will need to disconnect the battery and remove the alternator from the car. You will then need to locate the two wires that connect the alternator to the battery and cut them. Next, you will need to connect the two wires to the external voltage regulator and install the regulator in a convenient location. Finally, you will need to reconnect the battery and start the car.

Method 2: Bypassing PCM Voltage Regulator

Another way to bypass the computer-controlled alternator is to bypass the PCM voltage regulator. The PCM voltage regulator is responsible for regulating the charging rate of the battery. If it fails, you can bypass it and charge the battery manually. To bypass the PCM voltage regulator, you will need to disconnect the battery and remove the alternator from the car. You will then need to locate the two wires that connect the alternator to the PCM and cut them. Next, you will need to connect the two wires to a manual voltage regulator and install it in a convenient location. Finally, you will need to reconnect the battery and start the car.

Method 3: GM Regulator Swap

If you have a GM car, you can bypass the computer-controlled alternator by swapping the regulator. The GM regulator is designed to work with a wide range of alternators and can be easily swapped with the computer-controlled regulator. To swap the regulator, you will need to disconnect the battery and remove the alternator from the car. You will then need to remove the computer-controlled regulator and replace it with the GM regulator. Finally, you will need to reconnect the battery and start the car.

Method 4: Disable ECM Controlled Alternator

If you have a Nissan car, you can disable the ECM controlled alternator to bypass the computer-controlled alternator. The ECM controlled alternator is designed to regulate the charging rate of the battery based on the engine load. However, this can cause the battery to drain if the engine load is low. To disable the ECM controlled alternator, you will need to disconnect the battery and locate the ECM fuse. You will then need to remove the ECM fuse and start the car. The alternator will now charge the battery at a fixed rate, regardless of the engine load.

Conclusion

Bypassing a computer-controlled alternator can be a daunting task, but it is not impossible. With the right tools and knowledge, you can easily bypass the computer-controlled alternator and charge your battery manually. The methods discussed in this article are just a few of the many ways you can bypass a computer-controlled alternator. If you are unsure about how to bypass your alternator, it is always best to consult a professional mechanic.

-t623786.html