[scottb]

Originally Posted by TargaHenry

I was driving along on the freeway, about 70 miles into a 100 mile drive. Suddenly my car started to lose power. Giving gas first produced a surging/stalling feel, then it just slowed. I pulled over, turned it off, took a look. I am not a great mechanic, but belts were tight. I noticed a 'burning' smell different from my usual oil burning smell. Tried the key, fired up, so I got back on the road. A short time later (minutes), same thing. Dead. I called AAA, and wile waiting, I started it back up again, ran for a while, then rougher and rougher until it felt like it was 'pulsing' then died.

AAA showed up with a flatbed. Driver hooked his battery charge box up. Car started right up and I drove it up onto the bed.

He and I both guessed alternator, though I am no expert. Tomorrow I will try to test it per Bentley, but would appreciate any feedback or insights. Car is a 1984 3.2 Carrera Targa.

Thanks for coming to my aid, fellow Pelicans.

Edit: Battery is brand new, no warning lights on.

I had the identical symptoms in my 84 Targa. The alternator was bad.

There's nothing "magic" about the alternators in these cars. A good foreign alternator rebuilding shop can rebuild it for you. No need to go to any great expense. I think I paid about $85 10 years ago. The alternator is still going strong.