Date:         Thu, 14 Oct 1999 11:28:27 -0400
Reply-To:     John <johnpatt@WARWICK.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John <johnpatt@WARWICK.NET>
Subject:      Re: Wiring plauges my van......
Comments: To: Veedub <jewing@SPRINT.CA>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Veedub wrote:
>
> Here's the problems:  Two problems developed today.  First off my
> altenator isn't charging.  There is voltage coming out of the unit, but
> it isn't charging.  The alt. light on the dash doesn't come on anymore
> either.  I don't have access to a Bently for the wiring diagrams either.
> Any suggestions where to look?
>
> Second problem, when ever it gets cold outside, my rear turn signal
> (driver's side) doesn't work.... No voltage.  As soon as it warms up
> outside, or the van has been running for awhile, it starts working.
> Weird eh?
>
> Jason
> 82 Vanagon 1.6TD
> 80 VW GTI
> 79 VW Rabbit
> 57 VW Beetle
> +======================================================================+
> |  jewing(at)sprint(dot)ca     |     http://kozmik.guelph.on.ca/jason/ |
> +======================================================================+
Hi Jason,

Two suggestions: #1, Buy a Bentley TODAY ! #2, Buy a DVOM TODAY !

The alternator indicator lamp actually supplies the exciter current to
the alt field rotor to start the charging process. The D+ circuit must
be checked using the Bentley and the DVOM. If you want to "poke & hope"
check the blue wire on the back of the alternator, it's the D+ from the
instrument cluster. When the blue wire is DISCONNECTED, it should have
battery voltage when the ignition is switched ON and terminal it was
connected to should have 2-4 ohms. Unless the battery is dead, the big
red alt wires will always have voltage but the voltage is coming FROM
not going TO the battery.

Regarding the tail light, how do you know there's no voltage ? The lamp
circuit should be checked using the Bentley and the DVOM (notice a
pattern here?). If you want to poke & hope replace the bulb. A detached
bulb filament can change it's shape as temperature changes.........

Regards,        JP