BigBlockThunder

My ammeter works, and reads just to the left when I drive(it used to read just to the right when driving). I know it works because whenever there is a draw on the current, it moves further to the left. It never goes into the plus column (this is a NEW problem), was working fine, now, shockingly, it isn't....if it's not one thing it's another, and now the battery is dead. HOW can I tell if it's the alternator, or the regulator which isn't working ? The battery is fairly new, so I don't think it's that...I could use some help here...any thoughts? :banghead: :banghead: :banghead:

REVIVER

My SWAG is the alternator. If it doesnt show above the voltage in the battery (12vdc) then the alternator is not puttin out. A bad regulator will usually do things like jump when your turn signals flash on and off or apply a load from just about any source but it will usually recover after a spike. But never say always.

Take the alternator to an auto parts store and have them check it for you. Most all of them have a test bench and they can tell you if its good or bad for sure. :flag

Mikey1

:skep:

....the one thing you can do is connect a voltmeter to the battery....the reading with a running engine should be 13,8 to 15 volts.

If this is lower (and your gauge does not flicker with the turn signal applied)...then the alternator is the cause.

There is no need that the thing is truly dead but could have some worn parts inside....

....in German language the part that mostly wears out is called "coal" in a 1:1 translation.....I don´t know the specific word in American.

achapman

Take the alternator off and go to Auto Zone. They can put it on the tester, which is what I did. It turned out to be the voltage regulator, so for $9.95 I picked up a Chinese special and its been working great for over a year!!! :yesnod: Good Luck..... :cheers:

wallyknoch

A easy on the car check to see if it`s the alternator or regulator is to run a jumper wire from the batt. post on the alt. to the field wire in the alt. plug by-passing the regulator. If the voltage goes up or the alternator starts to wine or sing, {whatever you prefer} then the alt is good and the regulator may be bad. But you have definitely eliminated the alt as the problem :thumbs:

Cliff63

BBT,

FWIW, I use a craftsman engine analyzer #21029 ('bout 50 bucks) to check my car for electrical problems. Works for me. :cheers:

Viet Nam Vett

Quote*
I picked up a Chinese special ..........
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I'm sure the Ghost of Zora will come and get you....Your SWC will turn into ....."CHRISTINE"......and come after you
:lol: :lol: :lol:

achapman

:lol: :lol: :lol: Close.... the wife's name is Cheryl..... :lol: :lol: :lol:

Viet Nam Vett

Quote*
Close.... the wife's name is Cheryl
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

No Andy......"The Stephan King" Movie....The 57 Plymouth That comes alive and hurts crazy people like you who put off shore Voltage Reg's on :lol:

achapman

I know.... I know...... :D Steve's an ol'buddy from Bangor, ME..... :yesnod: Hey I wondered if you could give my old regulator a Viking sendoff..... :lol: :lol: :lol:

Viet Nam Vett

:lol: :lol: :lol:

StrayDog

First check that all connections are tight..the small plastic connecter that plugs into the back of the alternator can come loose ...also a simple way to check oif the alternatr is ok is to place a screwdriver against rear alt bearing when engine is running & it shoud feel pulled magneticlly if not then alt has a problem.................... :steering: :seeya

BigBlockThunder

Ok everyone, thanks for the advise. I took off the alternator with the thought of taking it to be tested, and I didn't need to even bother. The alternator seems to have commited suicide...there are plastic parts, small magnets, springs, etc. falling out of the openings, and it doesn't spin well. So, my next question is, since it's date coded in perfect sequence with all the other mechanical parts, who do I take it to to get rebuilt, assuming that's the route to take ? Thanks... :banghead:

plaidside

If it is a matching numbers unit you do not want to give it up.
Find a local rebuilder that is willing to work with you.
I see that you are from my area. If you cannot find anyone in your local area let me know and I will get it rebuilt for you at my rebuilder.