Alternator issues

Boozo Back in the bug

359 posts · joined Sep 2007 · 20 May 2012, 9:38 am

#902920

not sure if this is the right place for it. (and i have tried to use the search function)

I have a '68 with a bosch altenator attached, and recently while putting a new speedo and external idiot lights in it i realised that...despite the fact that the idiot light acts normally it is not charging 🙁

any ideas?

the idiot light is an LED, but i had to add resistance behind it to get it to switch at all. and that seemed fine.....but if i then pull the battery terminal the car will just die

'59 or Kombi?....feeling confused

'59 bug
'68 bug
'82 import T3 BUS. aircooled

mackaymanx Custom Title Time!

1,611 posts · joined Jan 2006 · 20 May 2012, 10:18 am

#902929

The alternator uses the current through the warning light to excite the fields(?). So if your warning light is blown the alternator will not work. The LED probably is not suppling the necessary current or none at all.

Quote of the week
"Do I wish to send them to you again, nope, no interest can't be bothered really, to much hassle for little or no return."

[IMG]https://www.vw-mplate.com/mplate2-18600.png[/IMG]

matberry Moderator Go hard or go home

8,114 posts · joined Mar 2006 · 20 May 2012, 12:18 pm

#902949

Try temporarily fitting a normal bulb and test with a voltmeter, if you see 13+ volts, (pref 14.2-6 with a charged battery)

Matt Berry Motorsports...air cooled advice, repairs and mods Ph 0408 704 662
OFF-ROAD,CIRCUIT,DRAG,STREET,ENDURANCE

Boozo Back in the bug

359 posts · joined Sep 2007 · 20 May 2012, 1:28 pm

#902966

yeah i have a normal bulb behind it to create the resistence, thats how i got it to switch at all.

all good thou...turns out it was the brushes, just took the ones out of my car annd hey presto! fixed

'59 or Kombi?....feeling confused

'59 bug
'68 bug
'82 import T3 BUS. aircooled