MG MGB and MGB GT Tech Talk
My ignition light has started staying on until I get driving. Then it goes off and stays off. But according to the voltmeter I am getting only a little more than 13V charge. I seem to remember, that I used to get over 14V. Is this an early warning sign that my alternator is starting to die?
check the belt and all connections before jumping to replacing the alt. dirty connections or a slipping could produce the symtoms you describe. if it is tme to replace the alt, i recommend the saturn conversion, done it on two of mine and the lights have never been brighter and winshieldwipers realliy do slap the time again. seach site for particulars.
Mick - thanks for the comment. I have seen your recommendations on the saturn alt and I think I'll go with that. I'll check the connections as you describe, but if those don't help then I guess its time for a new one.
Is it the case that alternators will "fade" or do they die suddenly?
Richard
A common misconception is that when an alternator is bad or a battery is bad, it's all that needs to be replaced. Sometimes, when the one is bad, the other is also. Some people come away from the repair shop thinking their wallet just got twisted, when in truth the two are sometimes related in failure. You might want to have both checked. Harbor Freight sells a combination bat/alt checker (about $3)... a very cool tool.
Len
OJX Wrote:
Richard
No, I just picked it off the shelf. When I get more money for AAA batteries for my digicam, I'll shoot a pic for you. The module is about 1/2 X 1 x 4" with black and red leads.
Len
any multimeter can check both batt and alt and these meters range in price from (evidently) 3 up to as much as you care to spend. they are like compases, quality and accuracy track price. tho if just deciding on replacement or not, the moss on the north side of the tree model will prob suffice.
If your still using a Lucas Alt. then its time for a new alt.. Saturn, Bosch, Delco...anything in the 100 amp range.
David Abbott Wrote:
http://www.partsamerica.com/ProductDetail.aspx?MfrCode=QLT&MfrPartNumber=P81073
will get you the one you need, good price, too. you will need to change pulleys and connectos, but this alt comes with a lifetime warranty.
Thanks Mick, I actually just ordered this one today - its a bit more $$, but its all set up.
http://www.mgccars.com/96_amp_alternator_upgrade.htm
Update: I just installed my new alternator
http://www.mgccars.com/96_amp_alternator_upgrade.htm
The alternator is a 96 amp Saturn model - adapted with a new pulley to fit the MG. It was shipped quickly in good packaging with simple easy to read instructions. Its a simple bolt on and there are two wires to connect.
When I fired the car up - I was charging at 14.5V (compared to 12-13V) before. This is a great upgrade and easy to do.
Rich