[Mgs] Battery/Alternator question (Non-MG)

[Councill, David]

Two weeks ago, I took my 1974 Toyota Landcruiser for a test drive, the first
in over a month. During the cranking cycle, there was in the middle, a slowing
that I of course ignored although noting it was not normal. When I reached my
destination, the Landcruiser would not start or crank over, as if the battery
was dead. We attempted to jump start it but that also did not work. Until I
played with the cables some. The reason it would not start, even with the
jump, was because there was corrosion and bad connection between the positive
cable itself and battery terminal clamp.

The point of my story is that regardless of whether it's a MGB or any other
car, check and clean the terminals and connectors first and foremost. I
usually replace the battery connectors after several years (probably as often
as batteries). Also clean ground cable connection to chassis. After that,  I
would check electrolyte level of the battery and top up with distilled water.
Only after that would I suspect the battery and have it tested.

I should mention on the above note, I have owned my Landcruiser since 1979 and
after the original alternator and voltage regulator failed (early 90s), I
replaced them with Lucas components which are still working at present.

David Councill
64 B
67 BGT
72 B
74 Landcruiser FJ40

-----Original Message-----
From: mgs-bounces at autox.team.net [mailto:mgs-bounces at autox.team.net] On Behalf
Of Joseph Cianciotti
Sent: Saturday, June 23, 2012 11:32 AM
To: mgs at autox.team.net
Subject: [Mgs] Battery/Alternator question (Non-MG)

This morning my non-MG vehicle (1993 Volvo 240) wouldn't start. It cranked a
couple of times and then died. I measured 12+ volts at the battery. Hooked up
the charger/starter to the battery, waited a couple of minutes and the car
started right up. I measured 13.88v at the battery. Let it run for about a 1/2
hour, the turned it off. Let it sit for another half hour and it started right
up (though it was warm this time). I have a new Bosch alternator in the car.
The battery is a few years old (I really can't remember). What do you guys
think? Time for a new battery?

Sorry to ask a non-MG question. But you're the best group of mechanics I
know.
Thanks in advance for your sage advice,

Joseph Cianciotti
1967 MGB Roadster
1993 Volvo 240
2004 Subaru Forester