Alternator Check-Light Issues?

OK-944 · 01-14-2011, 05:25 AM

I recently started up my 85.5 that had been sitting for three years (during which time I did an engine reseal). Started great, good oil pressure - but the alternator check-light did not come on prior to actual ignition, and it has me scratching my head.

The alternator did check out ok at my local Autozone.

I now have the gage cluster out, thinking that I should check the alt-light itself, as this is also apparently necessary to have working in order for the charging system to work. Looks complicated to take the gage cluster apart (apart from pulling/cleaning the "footballs" which I've done).

Any advice about this? Also a question: when I reinstalled the alternator to starter wiring, I placed the lead on top of the nut that secures the starter to battery wire, so that there is a space between the alt/starter lead and the battery/starter lead. Should I redo this so the two leads are in direct contact with each other? And might this make a difference in whether the alternator check light actually works? Thanks!

Jrboulder · 01-14-2011, 06:21 AM

You might have a short in the smaller wire coming from the alternator. There is a connection above the brake booster that might be corroded so you might want to check that out.

Good luck
Jackson

kfray · kfray's Garage

I would connect the alternator and battery leads so they are touching at the starter.
Connector "C" pin 4 on the back of the instrument cluster is one side of the charge indicator and pin 3 is connected to a diode to the other side of the charge indicator. There is a 68 ohm 5 watt resistor in parallel with the charge indicator. You should be able to trace these connections to the charge indicator "lamp".
With the instrument cluster connected a volt meter should read between 13 and 14 VDC across the battery terminals with the engine running.

kfray · kfray's Garage

OK-944
Did you fix the Alternator circuit ?

OK-944 · 01-20-2011, 06:01 AM

My job demands have forced me to take a time out from my alternator issues...but thanks for asking!
I'll be sure to check in here again.... when I have a bit more time - soon hopefully!

phoenix_iii · 01-20-2011, 07:01 AM

Uh oh... There's an alternator warning light? My voltmeter seems to be working okay... Where is the warning light? Is there a pic somewhere (besides owners manual, but I guess I can take a look there too)!

Didn't see it with either cluster I tried (I have a spare).