Alternator light stys on
 

Drove my car two days ago home from work and the alternator light stayed on after the engine fired up. It went out after I started to drive (about 15 sec.), came on again (after another 15 sec.) and stayed out on the entire way home (15 Mile trip) after that.
I started the car this morning in the garage and the light stays on all the time now. The light is not flickering nor dimming at differnet RPM's (up to 3000). I did not drive the car (took my wife's car as a spare) I rebuilt the engine in Feb. and the alternator received new brushes. Could it be the regulator, a sticking brush or something else?
Thanks for any inputs
SchockiSmileWavy

1972 911T Targa
1991 944S2

Schocki,
If the lamp remains lit after start up you have the following options, from what I understand:
Battery lead to alt. bad
Failed Volt. Regulator
Alternator not grounded
Alternator bushings worn out
Alternator is done

As you've probably read, check the transmission ground strap, battery leads, etc to rule out anything minor.

I had alternator problems a few weeks back and hooked up a volt meter with some leads into my cig lighter. Then you can figure out if it isn't charging at all, over-charging, etc. Turned out to be a bad VR on my 89 (internal). Your's is much easier to access - left side of the engine compartment I think. Hope this helps.

Cheers,

Thanks!
 

Will hook up my voltmeter this afternoon. F-15E Seymour-Johnson?
SchockiSmileWavy

Be sure to check your belt condition and tension. This can cause the light to coma on as well.

one last thing- check the clamp for the fan shroud is not too tight and aluminum shroud is cracked- common problem!
regards Ben

Timesharing
 

Make sure your emergency brake handle switch is working properly....it uses the same lamp - i.e. if the handle is up a bit while you are driving the light will stay on all the time...:cool: