Alternator

[Sugar Spun Sisters]

I have found out that the voltage output at the battery gives a reading 0f 19-20V. I know this is not right. I suspect my batteries are overcharging on my Autosleeper 1983 DG, although there is no obvious signs of this.
I only found out because my brake lights stopped working and the switch had failed.
What do you think is the problem?
Is it my Alternator?
If so, where will I be able to obtain a new one?

[kevtherev]

No your regulator is the problem not the alternator
Available from here
VEHICLE ELECTRICS, 166 STOCKFIELD ROAD, ACOCKS GREEN, BIRMINGHAM, B27 6AU. TEL : 0121 706 0688 EMAIL: VEHICLEELECTRICS@AOL.COM

[Sugar Spun Sisters]

Thanks for that Kev. I saw the part on the Just Kampers site, does the place in Birmingham you suggest stock better quality parts?
Also, if I've not been aware of the overcharging problem with relation to leaking batteries, gas smell etc, do you think either battery will need replacing?

[kevtherev]

I don't know about comparable quality of these parts,

To see if any damage has occurred just check it for voltage loss overnight.
Disconnect the battery.Measure an hour after you stop, then check in the morning
if it drops past 12.6 v I would say it isn't functioning as well as it should.

[Sugar Spun Sisters]

I've now caught up with the other thread about this ...it's all a learning experience though!
Just one question: does the alternator have to be removed to fit the voltage regulator?
If it does, do I need to get a new alternator belt? Thanks.

[Red Westie]

You may not be able to get straiht onto both screws holding the regulator. You will need to slacken the alternator off, remove the belt to allow enough movement so that both screws can be accessed.
As for whether the belt needs replacing that depends on its condition...is it cracked, fraying badly worn or polished then yes...at under £4.oo it's worth changing if in doubt.

Martin

[Sugar Spun Sisters]

Can anyone post a photo of the voltage regulator attached to the alternator please. I've bought a regulator now but I don't seem to be able to see it or feel it on the alternator . The alternator is still in situ at the moment. Thanks.

[Red Westie]

Although not the same alternator, the picture top left should give you a clue
Also similar regulator brush pack second row far right.
http://www.google.co.uk/images?hl=en&q= ... 76&bih=811

Just two screws but remove the positive battery terminal before touching anything.

Martin

[Sugar Spun Sisters]

Thanks Martin, that is really helpful...I can see the light!

[Plasticman]

Might be worth disconnecting the battery earth whilst working on the alternator.
mioke

[Sugar Spun Sisters]

Hi everyone, finally got this problem fixed, thanks to all and for your recommendations to go with a voltage regulator from auto electrics in Birmingham...spot on. However, after starting the van up I noticed that the temperature gauge isn't working now...and it's always been spot on before. Have I managed to dislodge any wires by working on the alternator? or something else?

[Cruz]

have you accidentally dislodged the connector off the temp sender on top of the coolant reservior tank?

[Sugar Spun Sisters]

I'm hoping it's just a dislodge of a wire somewhere...but I'm not sure where to look. I'll check the sender you suggested Cruz and see how I go. Would there be any other possibilities just so I can run through a checklist? thanks.

[Cruz]

Cant' think of anything else it could be tbh

[nicktennear]

What voodoo is this? How can my questions be answered before I've asked them? I've got the exact same problem so thanks for the help here.

Bet there's a brummie having his tea right now telling his missus how he sold two regulators over the phone today and they were both for T25s.