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Rascal Alternator
gavin174 - 21/6/09 at 03:57 PM

having a problem with the rascal alternator..

its getting hot..

not just when the engine is running even when ignition is off

seems to be working ok. 12.6v at battery when engine not running and between 13.6v and 14v when running

but battery light not working either and i am sure it did..

any ideas??

theconrodkid - 21/6/09 at 04:01 PM

you got more than 1 small terminal?,could be on the wrong one

Macbeast - 21/6/09 at 04:06 PM

Rectifier diodes gone and battery discharging through it ?

gavin174 - 21/6/09 at 04:32 PM

where would i find the rectifier diode..

is there anyway of testing it

is it something i can repair or do i need a new alternator

Macbeast - 21/6/09 at 06:36 PM

It's inside the alternator housing.

Easiest test is ignition off, disconnect battery positive connector and then wipe it across the positive terminal. If you get little sparks there is current flowing somewhere. Disconnect the wires to the alternator and try wipe test again. If no sparks, the alternator is drawing the current when connected.

If it's faulty an auto electrician might be able to repair it.

I think I have a spare one which you would be welcome to try - I'll check tomorrow - but obviously it's in North London.

Are you sure you have the wiring correct ? There should be a stud with a heavy wire which is the output to the battery. Then there are two thinner wires one of which goes to the warning light. If you had somehow reversed these two then the indicator wouldn't light and then you might get a phantom current through which could heat the alternator.

gavin174 - 21/6/09 at 07:04 PM

thanks for the info..

i have double checked the wiring

i have a permanent live to 8mm stud B
switch live to IG
and battery light to L

is this correct

where in norf london are you.. i work in borehamwood

Macbeast - 21/6/09 at 08:32 PM

That sounds right.

Wood Green. N8

Going to Maidstone tomorrow but should be back at about 6.30 Will check for spare alt and should know by lunchtime if you want to call me then.

Call 07931 785 313

gavin174 - 21/6/09 at 08:41 PM

should be in the office all day tomorrow so will keep an eye on here..

will goto the workshop tomorrow night and doublecheck wiring and do "wipetest"

will see what happens from there

Macbeast - 22/6/09 at 02:23 PM

OK, Gavin. I have a spare. Ring if you want to pick it up to try it.

gavin174 - 22/6/09 at 07:34 PM

ok.. time to hold my hands up...

double checked the wiring tonight..

and i mucked up!

i had the ign live and warning lamp connected up the wrong way on the back of the alternator..