Short? Alternator? Ground?

[Huw Powell]

> 4kq with brand new battery.  Doesn't get more than 10 volts and 
> sputters on acceleration.  It will not move with any 
> consumers(headlights, radio, etc.) going.  Warning lights on dash are
>  glowing very faintly. ....  Could this be my alternator  saying bye
> bye? ... I went through this two days ago and the car magicaly cured
> itself and was fine for a day.  Any help is appreciated.

Soundslike there's a good chance the brushes on your voltage regulator 
are worn down.  It's mounted on the back of the alternator with two 
screws, one of which might be very difficult to remove as it is also the 
ground path for the rotor winding.  They are also tough to get to 
because of clearance to the AC condenser.

Undo the screws, remove the VR, measure the brushes.  I forget what the 
spec is, but if they stick out less than 1/4" or so, put a new one in. 
Might take a few minutes of running before it starts making electricity.

-- 
Huw Powell

http://www.humanspeakers.com/audi

http://www.humanthoughts.org/