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Alternator Problem
Barksavon - 22/5/11 at 05:00 PM

Been out today and noticed ignition light on while driving, it was only dim but on, and went out the higher i revved the engine. When i got home and turned engine off then back onto first stage ignition when light should be on it wasnt but then came on when started engine....suspect alternator not charging but could it be anything else.


perksy - 22/5/11 at 06:24 PM

Double check the belt tension and also the wiring from the back of the alternator to the ignition warning lamp

If ok, check the output of the alternator by using a voltmeter on the battery terminals


spiderman - 22/5/11 at 09:51 PM

quote:
Originally posted by perksy
Double check the belt tension and also the wiring from the back of the alternator to the ignition warning lamp

If ok, check the output of the alternator by using a voltmeter on the battery terminals


If alternater is charging voltmeter should be reading approx 14.5 volts but at least 13 volts anything less suspect alternator or knackered battery.


Barksavon - 23/5/11 at 07:41 PM

Been out to car tonight and run engine for a while. On first starting battery light went out and alternator seemed to be working ok. bit later started it again gave it a good rev battery lgiht came on and alternator stopped charging, left it running for a while blipped revs to about 3500 - 4000, light went out alternator charging again......seems to be an intermittent problem, any suggestions as would rather repair than replace.


britishtrident - 23/5/11 at 08:07 PM

3 wire alternators are prone to arcing on the large blade terminals it causes major charging problems it causes voltage spikes and can blow the alternator.

Clean terminal blades with emery board and renew the Lucar spades. F

f the alternator has a keyless pulley check the pulley isn't spinning on the shaft.


Barksavon - 23/5/11 at 08:08 PM

ok mate will try that thanks