[TR] TR6 battery and alternator problem

[Randall]

> 4. I'd appreciate the wisdom of the list
> a) should I just get a voltage regulator? or do I replace the entire
> alternator? 

IMO, you don't have even enough information to replace the voltage
regulator.  Sounds more like a bad battery to me, but more tests are
required to say with any certainty.  14.3 volts is within the Lucas
specification of 13.6v to 14.4v.  But, unless your mechanic tested it with a
dummy load and no battery; you don't know if the regulator was calling for
more and the battery was taking all the current it could put out, or if the
regulator was regulating at 14.3.

> b) or do I replace both alternator and battery since the 
> battery could be so
> abused that it probably needs replacement?

The battery may well be the entire problem, if it has a (partially) shorted
cell.   And at the very least, being boiled that hard *will* damage it, so
it probably should be replaced anyway (once you are certain the charging
system is OK).

> The Buckeye Club
> site suggests that a good alternate is the high amp Bosch 
> alternator used
> for the Ford Fiesta and VW Rabbit. 

I will second that, except that it is only for very specific Ford Fiestas
(most of them had Motorcraft alternators that are completely different); and
I wasn't aware of the VW Rabbit application.  My Rabbit had factory A/C
(like the right Fiesta does), but not the same Bosch alternator.

>  My preference would be to spend a little extra and so be able to 
> use my TR6 sooner.

In that case, I would replace both the battery and the entire alternator
(with the Bosch unit); then promptly have it checked out by a local shop
that has the right equipment to fully test the charging system.

Randall 
(Tedious but unavoidable disclaimer follows) 






CONFIDENTIALITY. This electronic mail and any files transmitted with it may contain information proprietary to NavCom Technology, Inc., or one of its affiliates, and are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed, shall be maintained in confidence and not disclosed to third parties without the written consent of the sender. If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering the electronic mail to the intended recipient, be advised that you have received this electronic mail in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this electronic mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this electronic mail in error, please immediately notify the sender by return mail.