Charging Problem

Guest

I have some kind of issue with the charging system in my '73.
The battery does not seem to be getting charged.
Using a volt meter, the voltage at the battery reads the same when the car is off or running.
The ammeter reads full 75 to the right while driving, which I thought meant that the battery was being charged.
The "Gen" light on the speedo doesn't come on. I checked the wires there (blue/black & white) only to find that they both seem to be supplying power. There are also two resistors connected between these wires. I used a volt meter, and connecting the positive to each wire and to a ground respectively, it showed positive volts (don't remember how many exactly).
The car only seems to start as many times as a full charge on the battery will allow.
What other things should I check? Voltage regulator (where is that)?
Any help would be appreciated.

9/10/045:04 PM

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Original Post

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Throttle man (Guest)

The voltage regulator is the small black box on the firewall near the coil. My guage showed that it was charging, but the light was on the guage. Less than $15.00 at Autozone & took just a few minutes to install. I would try that first before I took off the Alt.

9/10/045:39 PM

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bdMember

I agree with Throttle Man, try a new voltage regulator. I took my old regulator to AutoZone to have it tested and it tested okay but the system voltage was still swinging all over the place. I put a new regulator on and the system voltage is steady and it keeps the battery charged. Like he said, they are only about 15 bucks.

9/10/049:11 PM

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ht4tchr (Guest)

Changing the voltage regulator seems to be an easy way to narrow down or fix the problem. So now I must ask, what is the easiest way to access it? It looks like from underneath would be easy, if I could reach it.

9/12/046:51 PM

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jon3613Member

It looks more difficult than it actual is ... Disconnect negative battery cable. Jack up rear passenger side at jacking point about 12" high. Remove the splash sheild, my 72 has 3 bolts. You might want to remove the rear wheel as well if you need more room.

9/13/044:26 AM

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ht4tchr (Guest)

Thanks for the advice. I removed the voltage regulator, cleaned the connections, and reinstalled. The "Gen" light on the dash lit up when starting the car. I proceeded to remove and clean all grounds (2 at the battery, 1 braided at the bellhousing, and one at the back of the transaxle). All grounds were attached to painted srufaces and needed a good cleaning. I then replaced the battery with a new Optima red top. After minimal use so far, the car starts like new - when engine is hot or cold, night or day

9/27/049:05 AM

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Dave D (Guest)

A new battery solved my starting problems too.
I changed the regulator at the same time, but I think it was the battery.
I think we are being told to drive our cars more.
With regular driving my car seems to run better.

Dave

9/27/047:40 PM

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