Alternator Issues

[White87turbo]

I have had to put 3 new Alternators on my 87 turbo Buick all within the last 1000 miles. I have a scanmaster and can monitor the output. All three new alternators worked fine when first installed and will show 12.5 to 13.5 volts. After driving the vehicle for a short time the volts drop to 10 to 11 and never get better so I just replaced the unit. I have a theory based on the fact that the igniter wire is only getting 8 to 9 volts and should be getting 12. If anyone can help I would greatly appreciate it. thanks ben

 

[turbojd]

With the engine off, turn the key forward, see if your "volt" light is lit, if it's not the car will not charge.

 

[White87turbo]

I did as you said and the volt lite did not lite up when I turned the key on. Now what. thanks ben

 

[turbojd]

Ben, try replacing the bulb first and see if that fixes the problem.

 

[White87turbo]

Thanks, I will try this morn and post results. thanks ben

 

[sick GN]

so what do you do if its not the bulb???

 

[GNVenom]

You do this:

CEI - Casper's Electronics, Inc.

 

["Turbo-T"]

That bulb is an essential part of the charging system. Make sure it has good contacts. Not sure if this is true but I've heard the bulb is shunt wound in case of burn out...but if the socket contacts come loose....

 

[tc86gn]

I never knew this. Good thread.