In order to keep an automobile operating at its peak performance, it is necessary to check the operating efficiency of its many electrical systems and components from time to time. A multimeter testing device such as the Fluke 88V is a great tool for measuring voltage, current, continuity and resistance. The Fluke 88V can also perform diode test and pulse width measurements. This multimeter is versatile and also effective in testing hybrid automobiles.
Measuring revolutions per minute (RPMs). Turn off the engine. Connect the Inductive Pickup output plug into the input terminals, (+) side to the V/RPM port, the (--) side to the COM port. Next, turn the Rotary Switch to K or L. For four-cycle engines, select RPMo by pressing the blank key once. Attach the Inductive Pickup clamp end to a spark plug wire close to the plug (make sure that the SPARK PLUG SIDE lettering is facing the spark plug). Turn the engine on and read the displayed RPMs. Make sure the engine is turned off before removing the Inductive Pickup.
Testing for continuity in a switch (using the Stoplight Switch as an example). Insert the red test lead into the V/RPM port, the black test lead into the COM port, and then turn the Rotary Switch to N. Next, press the E button. Connect the probes to the stoplight switch with the red probe going to the (+) terminal and the black probe going to the (-) terminal. Press the brake pedal; an audible tone indicates a good switch.
Testing ripple voltage on an alternator. Insert the red test lead into the V/RPM port and the black test lead into the COM port, then turn the Rotary Switch to K. Next, turn the engine on. Touch the red probe to the battery side (BAT) of the alternator, the black probe to a suitable ground. Read the display. The reading for a good alternator should be less than 0.5 V AC. A higher reading might indicate that the alternator diodes are damaged.
Measuring system voltage. Insert the red test lead into the V/RPM port, the black test lead into the COM port, then turn the Rotary Switch to V. Next, turn on the lights for one minute to bleed the surface charge from the battery, then turn the lights off. Next, touch the red probe to the positive side (+) of the battery, the black probe to the negative side (-) of the battery. Next, read the display. A fully charged battery should show about 12.6 V.
