<VV> Re: 66 Monza Electrical question

[Dave Keillor]

Yes, there is, but you may not want to replace the bad diode -- assuming
you can buy one.  First, confirm that it's a bad diode, then if you want
to tackle diode replacement, let me know (checking diodes is also
covered in the Tech Guide).

First check for dark current by removing one of the battery cables and
putting an ammeter in series with the battery and the cable.  The
ammeter should be capable of reading something in the 5 amps range. If
you find dark current, then disconnect the red wire at the alternator.
If the dark current disappears, the problem is a bad diode in the
alternator.

Or, you can remove the alternator and take it to an automotive parts
store for testing.

If you confirm that it's a bad alternator, my recommendation is to buy a
rebuilt from one of the Corvair vendors.  Note that the Corvair
alternator rotates opposite from other applications and, as such,
requires a different fan.

Dave Keillor
 

-----Original Message-----
From: Jedd Hebrink [mailto:jhebrink at anvilcom.com] 
Sent: Monday, November 26, 2007 12:14 PM
To: Dave Keillor
Subject: RE: <VV> Re: 66 Monza Electrical question

Thanks Dave!
Is there any way to determine which diode may be shorted?  I would
rather
not replace all six if I don't have to.
Jedd 

-----Original Message-----
From: Dave Keillor [mailto:dkeillor at tconcepts.com] 
Sent: Monday, November 26, 2007 12:00 PM
To: Jedd Hebrink; virtualvairs at corvair.org
Subject: RE: <VV> Re: 66 Monza Electrical question

It could be a shorted diode in the alternator.  With only one bad diode,
the
alternator will often appear to be working when you measure the charging
voltage, but will produce an amp or so of dark current when the car is
shut
off.

Dave Keillor
 

-----Original Message-----
From: virtualvairs-bounces at corvair.org
[mailto:virtualvairs-bounces at corvair.org] On Behalf Of Jedd Hebrink
Sent: Monday, November 26, 2007 11:51 AM
To: virtualvairs at corvair.org
Subject: <VV> Re: 66 Monza Electrical question

 
Many thanks to all who offered advice and suggestions on my electrical
problem.  I determined (with the helpful advice of your responses) that
the
alternator and voltage regulator were functioning properly.  I found
that
the system was pulling 11.5 volts with the doors closed and the ignition
off.  Must have a short or other fault somewhere.  Because the weather
was
pretty miserable this weekend, I opted for a quick disconnect at the
battery.  That will have to hold my daughter over until the weather
improves
and I can chase down the source of the problem.

Thanks again for all the help!
Jedd

No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition. 
Version: 7.5.503 / Virus Database: 269.16.4/1145 - Release Date:
11/22/2007
11:49 AM
 

 _______________________________________________
This message was sent by the VirtualVairs mailing list, all copyrights
are
the property of the writer, please attribute properly. For help,
mailto:vv-help at corvair.org This list sponsored by the Corvair Society of
America, http://www.corvair.org/ Post messages to:
VirtualVairs at corvair.org
Change your options:
http://www.vv.corvair.org/mailman/options/virtualvairs
 _______________________________________________

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition. 
Version: 7.5.503 / Virus Database: 269.16.4/1145 - Release Date:
11/22/2007
11:49 AM
 

No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition. 
Version: 7.5.503 / Virus Database: 269.16.4/1145 - Release Date:
11/22/2007
11:49 AM