Although older vehicles might allow this, I would never do it, for fear of voltage fluctuation causing damage to sensitive electronics down the line. When the battery is in line, I would expect a moderating effect on voltage fluctuations caused by the alternator. On the other hand, i suspect it probably is OK to disconnect the alternator before starting the car, and then run for a few minutes, if you are trying to hunt down some problem in the system. I’ve never done that myself, either.
- Home
- alternator testing