New regulator, or new alternator?

[Pootle]

My charging light is coming on... dimly.

When I measure the voltage at the alternator with the engine running I see just under 12V on the main output and about 6V on the little blue wire. When I ground the little blue wire the charging light comes on fully. The alternator is grounded OK.

The van has been started at least half a dozen times since I noticed this so it seems as if the battery is being charged.

New regulator, or new alternator?

Many thanks,

--
Pootle (1989 1.9 DG engine wasserboxer)

[Hacksawbob]

heres something on checking the system
http://www.club80-90.co.uk/wiki/index.p ... r_checking

[Pootle]

heres something on checking the system
http://www.club80-90.co.uk/wiki/index.p ... r_checking

Thanks Hacksawbob I read that.

As suggested I removed the blue wire and earthed it which indicated an alternator fault. But before I replace the whole alternator I was hoping someone might recognise the symptoms and tell me if it was due to the regulator in the alternator (£9.50) or I need a whole new unit (about £65).

--
Pootle

[tonytech]

Take the Voltage reg off the alternator and measure the brush length.
13mm new ...... 5mm knackered.

Without special equipment thats all you can do.

Your local auto electrician may be able to test it for you.

T

[NOT ANOTHER LEAK]

your battery should be reading about 14.5v with the engine running,if its only reading 12v then regulator probably knackered

[kevtherev]

Change the reg with some one else it's only a couple of screws.

mine went into low charge mode..but no light, the ammeter started flickering, as did the headlights.

changrd the reg and bingo

[Pootle]

Take the Voltage reg off the alternator and measure the brush length.
13mm new ...... 5mm knackered.

What about 3mm?

I'm back to 13.5V - thanks for the advice!

--
Pootle

[tonytech]

3mm is basket case

T