Date:         Mon, 31 Oct 2005 22:59:39 -0700
Reply-To:     Jon Kanas <kanas@QADAS.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Jon Kanas <kanas@QADAS.COM>
Subject:      Charging Strangeness
In-Reply-To:  <20051101050819.DC2662006597@mailext.clearreach.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii; format=flowed

Good Day Vanagonites,

The 1987 Syncro has developed an unusual charging behavior.  When as
lower than average RPM (ie letting clutch out when leaving from a light,
but before getting on the gas) the charging LED in the dash comes on.
When the charging LED is on, the alternator is obviously not working
(lights dim, reduced whine etc).  As soon as the engine comes over about
1000 RPM the charging LED extinguishes and normal charging returns.  It
will occasionally flicker again at around 1800 RPM.   I have retensioned
the belt and verified clean and tight connections everywhere.

I am guessing that the brush pack in the alternator may be worn out ( It
does have a brushpack / regulator screwed into the back of the
alternator, right?) and need replacement.  Before I pull the alternator
and check the brush pack etc, I wanted to inquire with the list to see
if these symptoms might be pointing at a different problem.  Please
advise at your convenience.  Any suggestions for obtaining a brushpack
or replacement alternator also welcome.
--

Best Regards,
Jon B Kanas

Longmont, Colorado; Cultural Center of the Universe
Email: kanas@qadas.com <mailto:kanas@qadas.com>
Website: http://www.qadas.com/~kanas <http://www.qadas.com/%7Ekanas>
AOL Instant Messenger ID: KanasColo