---I seem to be having another battery charging problem maybe someone can
help me with. I replaced the voltage regulator (control box) about 6 months
ago. With the new voltage regulator installed, it seemd to charge constantly
when above 2,000 rpm, at about 15 amps. I asked a mechanic friend about
that and he said that was normal, and everything seemed to be going well, so
leave well enough alone.
About 3 months ago I noticed that with the head lights on and the engine at
about 2500 rpm, the ammeter would swing wildly from +30 to -30 amps, but
would settle down at any other speed. However, the range and circumsatnces
increased to where it would swing wildly wihtout the headlights and at wider
range of RPM's.
One month ago, after a week of non use, the battery was dead (ok, dull) and
required a recharge before I could start the car. After sitting for the
last 2 weeks (sorry, I was away on a business trip over the weekend), the
battery was very dull. The battery is only about 2 years old and is an
extra cranking amps type. I have been trying to charge the battery for
several days - not constantly, since I won't leave the charger on over night
or when I am not around - but it doesn't want to take a full charge.
I did the regulator test as in the haynes manual and it seemed to pass ok,
the voltmeter needle didn't waver. However, if watch the contacts on the
voltage regulator carefully, there seems to be a constant sparking between
the points. The cutout seems to be openning and closing properly.
I also did the short test thing with a test light in serial with the battery
and there was no light. That was after I completely disconnected teh radio
on the off chance that the clock was drawing too much power.
Sorry about the long intro, now to the questions. Is the voltage regulator
hosed, in need of adjustment, or acting normal? Is the battery fried,
perhaps form consistent overcharging from a hosed voltage regulator, or can
I ask COSTCO for a trade - in?
TIA,
Bob
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