Re: Weak Alternator?

[Huw Powell <human@nh.ultranet.com>]

> My '84 4k runs at about 14 volts indicated on the center console
> voltmeter until electrical items are switched on. Each item switched on
> (lights, ventilation fan, wipers) draws the voltage down a little until
> it is slightly below 12 volts. This is rpm independant. I changed the
> brush housing and the symptoms stayed the same. Isn't the regulator in
> the brush housing? 

Yes

> Is the alternator bad/weak? 

Maybe not, sounds pretty typical.  I wouldn't expect my voltage to read
above 12 if I had the healdights on and fan on a high setting.  Try
measuring the voltage at the alt output and battery to see if it is
actually that low, I suspect series resistance and perhaps ground
lifting affect the voltmeter when a lot of things are turned on.

You could always have it "load" tested.

-- 
Huw Powell

http://www.thebook.com/human-speakers

82 Audi Coupe; 85 Coupe GT
http://www.nh.ultranet.com/~human