[alfa] Re: simplified alternator question

["Dean W. Cains" <dwc@xxxxxx>]

Hi Greg:

I've always heard that disconnecting the battery with the engine running 
was a sure-fire way to destroy the diodes (rectifiers) in an alternator, 
although it may be a valid test on a generator equipped car.  Perhaps if 
your alternator was OK on the bench, it may not be now.  Most of the parts 
stores around here have a testing machine they'll roll out to your car, 
that checks all the various charging components in situ.  Haven't you got 
one around there?  A voltmeter will tell you if the system is charging, 
although if it's not, the meter won't diagnose your problem.  Whatever the 
case, the original alternator is very weak, even at best, and I've got a 65 
(or 70?) amp unit on my '74 Spider that was a nice upgrade.  Everything 
works better, from the headlights to the wipers, and on a cold, rainy day 
when all the accessories are needed, the reserve capacity is 
necessary,too.  The alternator is a simple bolt-on upgrade, for <$100, so 
let me know if you'd like the details.  It also looks original, if that's 
of any importance.  Finally, if you'd like to try a replacement regulator, 
I may have a good one somewhere, that you're welcome to have, if I haven't 
already tossed it.  I'd be happy to look.

Regards,

Dean


At 10:37 AM 10/29/2003, you wrote:

> Date: Wed, 29 Oct 2003 08:02:56 EST
> From: GModelle@domain.elided
> Subject: [alfa] simplified alternator question
>
> Fellow Alfisti,
> I have a 1972 spider with a transplanted 1750 weberized engine. The bosch 33
> amp alternator is producing power on a test bench. However, when installed in
> the car, the battery slowly looses charge and the engine will quit if the
> positive terminal is disconnected from the battery. Curious and eager to 
> place the
> blame at the regulators doorstep, I sure could use some words of wisdom.
> modelle in somers point
> 115.01
> 115.02
--
to be removed from alfa, see /bin/digest-subs.cgi
or email "unsubscribe alfa" to majordomo@domain.elided