[Vwdiesel] A general electricaL system question

[Roger Brown]

"Jack M. Taylor, Jr." wrote:
> 
> I hope someone can help me with my beloved Mk1 1981 Scirocco.
> I'm in the process of a long and loving restoration.  Not being
> particularly adept mechanically, I farm out most of the mechanical work
> when I can afford it (not much lately).
> 
> Anyway, this is a beautiful original rust-free example that I am trying to
> return to original running condition.  For the most part it runs well.
> 
> Question:
> 
> Everything in the electrical system is weak.  By that I mean that all of
> the lights are dimmer than they should be; the wipers (front and rear) run
> very slowly, etc.
> 
> How can I fix this problem effectively?  Any and all answers welcomed and
> appreciated.
> 
> I know it's not a diesel, and not an Audi, but we're all brothers here
> right?  Thanks.

Likely a grounding issue, but you can do a simple test to find out.  Grab a volt meter and turn on the headlights (engine running).  Slide the headlight connector back a bit to allow access to the terminals.  Put the meter between the batter + terminal
and the hot terminal on the headlight, measure the voltage drop.  Repeat the measurment between the common headlight terminal and the battery - terminal.  If either of the voltage drops are more than a few tenths of a volt, then that is the problem side. 
Common problems are the ground cables from the battery to the body and the body to the engine.  I upgraded my headlight wiring harness with a relay kit and it made a big difference in light output:
	http://4crawler.cruiserpages.com/Diesel/CheapTricks/Headlights.shtml

-- 
    Roger