Just lately, my alternator seems to be developing a problem.
Occasionally, when I start the car, the IGN (ignition) light will stay
on, even after revving the engine. I could see the alternator failing
(the IGN light is actually hooked to the alternator on a TR7)
altogether, but the condition changes from day to day! The light may
stay on for two days in a row, but then stay off the whole next day.
Although I haven't checked with a voltmetre, I am pretty sure that the
alternator really isn't functioning (at least fully) when the light is
on - proof of this is that the battery runs down, and fails to start the
car after a few days of the light remaining on.
I have ruled out the alternator terminals - I recently re-formed and
cleaned them.
For all of you that found you needed a ground strap between your
alternator and the engine, was this the same symptom?
- I am hoping that adding a ground strap would cure this problem.
Could this problem be the symptoms of a more serious problem?
-such as worn out brushes, or failing diode pack/regulator pack?
I eagerly await your wisdom!
Greg.
--
Internet: gall@ultrix.uleth.ca
"You miss too much these days if you stop to think"
By a famous Irish poet and philosopher, Bono of the band U2, circa '91.
'76 Triumph TR7 V8 (Buick 350) Fixedhead Coupe.
'77 Triumph TR7 4spd, A/C Fixedhead Coupe. _ /| A
'79 Triumph TR7 Auto Drophead Coupe. \`o_O' C
'78 Mazda RX7. ( ) K
'73 FIAT 128 Coupe SL 1300cc. U !
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