Electrical Issue
Electrical Issue drove to a local bar tonight and parked it, voltage when I parked it was around 9 but was at 12-13 or so all the way there. I left and I started the car the voltage was around 8. I was hesitant about driving so I burned some time debating about what to do. checked cables and connections. the car started fine a few more times same voltage. the headlights and all electrical components were on perfect as if the voltage wasn't low.
so after building up the ***** to drive 13 miles home all dark roadways, I decided to do it. I made it back to my development and the battery completely died. voltage was at 8 or so the whole 13 mile trip back to the development.
when I replaced the alternator a few weeks back I had the battery checked and they said it held a charge just fine. but now I'm thinking between then and now the battery took a crap. but now I'm reading coil packs could take a crap too and have similar symptoms. and if the cause was the battery why would the car start several times. before I dig into it again I was wondering of your guys opinions has anyone had a similar issue?
so after building up the ***** to drive 13 miles home all dark roadways, I decided to do it. I made it back to my development and the battery completely died. voltage was at 8 or so the whole 13 mile trip back to the development.
when I replaced the alternator a few weeks back I had the battery checked and they said it held a charge just fine. but now I'm thinking between then and now the battery took a crap. but now I'm reading coil packs could take a crap too and have similar symptoms. and if the cause was the battery why would the car start several times. before I dig into it again I was wondering of your guys opinions has anyone had a similar issue?
Joined: Nov 2001
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From: Schiller Park, ILL Member: #317
When you replaced the alternator, how careful were you about the little red exciter/field wire that connects to the top (weather pack connector)? Often times these get yanked on a bit or put under stress during an alternator swap, sometimes the wire is still in the connector but only by a strand or two, and then over a period of time it will break off completely or the connection will become intermittent.
I would agree that the battery was quite healthy if it held enough charge to get you 13 miles with a full electrical load, several starts of the engine, and no help from the alternator before dying. You may need a new battery now, depending on it's age an condition prior to this event, but I don't think that's the root of your problem.
I would agree that the battery was quite healthy if it held enough charge to get you 13 miles with a full electrical load, several starts of the engine, and no help from the alternator before dying. You may need a new battery now, depending on it's age an condition prior to this event, but I don't think that's the root of your problem.
that wire actually snapped from the housing when I removed the alternator. I did end up buying a new one but I had to cut the old one off and connect the new wire using a butt connector. I will check that today.
