ALTERNATOR ISSUE?

[Mk2Tony]

Hi guys,

wondering if anyone can shed some light on this issue. the last few times I have taken the bus out in the night I have noticed that my battery light is dimly flickering on the dashboard. usually it goes out when I switch my headlamps on, but sometimes it doesn't. Has anyone else come across this issue before is it time for a new alternator? Both batteries seem to be charging ok

any advice is appreciated

Cheers

Tony

[Oldiebut goodie]

Mine does it with the added delight of the indicator one being on very dimly. My charging is all OK and have put it down to an earth malfunctioning but it doesn't bother me enough to do anything about tracing it. It has done it for the last 10 years or so and will continue to do so! If your charging is definitely OK I wouldn't disturb the wiring as we all know what happens when you do that. All it means is that a small voltage is passing over the bulb. The light should go out when the alternators voltage output to the bulb matches the voltage the other side of the bulb, any very slight inequality will lead to a small voltage difference which causes the glowing - it may be just 1/2 volt or less.
Does that make sense?

[Mk2Tony]

Thanks OBG, I thought I would ask on here first because like you said its better not to go disturbing wiring if you can help it! Both batteries seem to be charging ok and holding charge, and the volt meter is in the green when the engine is running so I think I will just leave it for the moment, I'll just keep an eye on it for the time being

Thanks for the reply , that's one thing off my mind that I can stop worrying about. Next on the list push rod tube seals!

Tony