3.2 alternator help please
 

Hi
My alternator whurs at startup which remains for about a minute. The dash light stays on for about the same period and then turns off. Battery goes flat after about a week of no use. Any thoughts?

I would pull the alternator out and have it checked out.... any parts store can tell you if its bad or not.

As for the battery, it might be a related prob where the alt is not charging it... and is already weak.

Charge the battery with an external source. Take a digital meter and read voltage. Should read 13+ volts. If not replace battery.

If the battery appears good, fire up the engine and per the Bentley manual, attch meter leads again to the + and - terminals and read at idle, and 2500 rpms.

Each reading should be 13+. Any spikes or dips is likely the voltage regulator. Remove and have it rebuilt by a local. I don't recommend remans as their reputations are not stellar. The late alt light going out can be a slipping fan belt BTW....

If all number look good, do a load test on the battery. An easy way to get an idea is to turn on the headlights THEN start the motor. A dip in the lighting power is an indicator of a weak battery even if it has full voltage. Load tests can be done with a hand held meter if you have access to one, or a mechanic or a auto parts store if they offer the service down in your neck of the woods.

Okay great. I'll try this and report back.