Strange electrical problem
 

Not-charging warning light came on, but there seems to be nothing wrong with the alternator: resting voltage 12.33 volts after three engine starts and a short period of running with headlights on, engine-idling voltage 13.8 volts. Interstate battery is about two years old.

Funny thing is, the no-charge light -stays- on, even with the ignition off.

Then, after about 20 minutes of running in this condition, I lost all instrumentation, needles went to zero across the board, and there are no warning lights (other than the no-charge light) when the ignition is first turned on. Also, the radio doesn't work: it powers up but only shows the word "protect."

Only unusual thing I notice is there's a goodly amount of that chalky, cream-colored electrolytic (?) deposit around the battery--none of it anywhere near the terminals or top of the battery, just around the hold-down clamps and periphery at the bottom.

Any suggestions, other than removing the battery and getting rid of the corrosion?

Stephan,

Check your ground connections to chassis. Similar problems have been reported and solved with a good clean ground connection. Those little DME computers like steady voltage.

Off topic: Is this the author Stephan Wilkinson? If so I read your book and thoroughly enjoyed it. Quite an adventure.

Yup, that's me.

Must say, that ground connection is quite short--like about six inches from battery to car--and it looks good as new, but I'll R&R it tomorrow.

Thanks!