RE: [No HA content] Car "alternator warning light"

[James Hoye <jhoye@xxxxxxx>]

> From my experience it has always been the brushes worn in my
> alternator and
> replacing these for abpout 2 quid cured the problem.
>
> The WL (warning light) terminal on the alternator is at 0V
> when not charging
> so the lamp lights due to the other side being connected to
> 12V. For you to
> see the light glowing dimly means that the WL terminal is at
> about 1 or 2
> volts difference to the ignition circuit. If its around
> 10-11V then the
> alternator isnt charging properly. If its higher than the
> ignition circuit
> voltage then either there is excessive drop on the ignition
> side or the
> connection between the main alternator output and the battery
> is suspect
> with the alternator giving out its proper 14.4v but it is
> getting "lost"
> between there and the battery.

Also check that the earthing between alternator body and engine is secure.
My brother was driving my 1991 Cavalier when it just wouldn't go any
further. Inspection revealed that the earth bonding had corroded, and as a
result the alternator wasn't charging any more, a battery can only last so
long with no charge, and headlights, ECUs, radio, heated rear screen......

James H

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