| Re: [GMCnet] Waaay off topic but i know someone knows [message #157851] |
Tue, 24 January 2012 11:19 |
Gary Casey
Messages: 448
Registered: September 2009
Karma: 0
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Senior Member |
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I suspect someone will reply that has the best idea on the subject, but I too, know a lot of facts - except they are often not true...
I assume you mean that you can charge the battery, or more likely have a new one in the car. What the problem is then that the alternator won't charge the battery, correct? The first thing I would do is check to make sure the battery terminal on the alternator has battery voltage (with the ignition turned off). There might be a loose or corroded connection in that circuit. If it has an alternator warning light, does it work and does it turn on with the ignition? There are variations from make to make, but it should be on, but not really bright. If it is really bright, there might be a short to ground somewhere in the field circuit. If it is off and the bulb is good, there could be an open circuit. Most alternators rely on current flow in the warning light circuit to power the field and get it charging, after which it is powered internally. An open in this circuit (like a burned-out bulb) is probably the most common cause of no charge.
But with it sitting all those years, the field brushes could be stuck and not making contact. Sometimes you can reach in the back of the alternator and nudge them. Not likely, though. If all the external wiring checks out the next step is probably to remove the alternator just to free up the brushes. Good luck.
Gary Casey
on the subject that the car is 27 years old. most guys here will appreciate this. it has only 15,864 miles on it. it has a digital dash with 6 digits, and the 15k is original. its been sitting for almost 23 of its 27 years. and we cant get her to charge. we keep plugging away at it though.
we are running out of ideas, so i thought id come here and consult the best experts on everything. :d
--
Donovan, Greenville SC
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