I had a '91 Grand Prix with EFI and it ran for about 30 minutes, after the alternator went, before the voltage got to low (I believe 10 volts) to keep the engine running. I didn't need my headlights or use turn signals, radio, or fan. The Grand Prix had a much smaller battery than my '84 Westy has so I assume my Westy could go much further. Andrew 1984 Westy "Speed Bump" 1996 VW Jetta Trek "Little Beep" (the wife's car)
----- Original Message ----- From: "Andrew M Fox" <andrewf@HAWAII.EDU> To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM> Sent: Saturday, November 03, 2001 6:43 PM Subject: can vanagon run w/out alternator?
> My question is if the alternator fails on a vanagon can you keep the > engine running assuming you don't need headlights or any other accesories? > I know that on some cars the EFI uses electricity so if the alternator > goes you have a limited amount of time before there is'nt enough > electricity to to run these critical engine electrical systms. If you > can't run the engine without proper voltage does anyone know what the > electrical draw is of the vanagon engine, ie how long can you go before > having to get a tow or switch to your alternate battery (if you have > one). Recently on a long trip my alternator stopped working. I was able > to drive but when i stopped for gas and tried to start it again there > was'nt enough juice for the starter. I used my auxillary battery to > jumpstart the van and was on my way. > > Thanks, > Andrew Fox > 86 Westy > Ft. Collins CO > |
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