Electrical probs in'88 90 Quatro

[Huw Powell]

> I just acquired a 1988 90 Quarto without getting any
> history.  If driven every day it is fine.  If left un
> driven for 48+ hours it will not start without a jump.
>  I was told to disconnect one of the battery cables
> while the car is running; if the engine does not shut
> off then the alternator is OK and the problem is the
> battery.  Is this true?  And Is this a common
> electrical problem with the 90?

1. *never* run a car engine with the battery disconnected.
2. it sounds like you have a faulty charging system.
3. it happens to all cars eventually.

measure the battery voltage with everything, including the engine, off,
by using a meter at teh battery posts.
repeat this with the engine running and all electricals turned off.  if
the voltage is higher, your alt is good, and battery or connections are
bad. if the voltage is lower, the alternator or connections are bad.

there is a *lot* of stuff on charging system diagnosis in the archives,
somewhere.

and here: http://www.humanspeakers.com/audi/alternator.htm

I hope this helps somewhat.

--
Huw Powell

http://www.humanspeakers.com/audi/

http://www.humanthoughts.org/