<VV> Bulbs burn out quickly?

[davep at quik.com]

> IMnotsoHO, the FIRST thing to check when bulbs burn  out is the
> VOLTAGE on the system.  The stock regulator is notorious for
> going out of spec and allowing higher voltage than normal to be
> fed into the electrical system by the alternator/generator.
> If the charging voltage  (say at 2000 rpm) is greater than
> 14.5 volts with a warmed up engine then you need to readjust the
> regulator to get it lower.  16 volts will definitely shorten the
> life of all the bulbs in the car!
    And the battery.
    And the radio.

    Been there, done that, 1964 'vair.  The battery will fry,
    holding down the voltage, by overloading the
    alternator/gennie.

    Most voltmeters are reasonably accurate, can be worth
    checking the one used, on another vehicle, or other
    'known good' source.

    Worth checking, if its not been done, as properly
    suggested, that 'burnt out' bulbs are burnt out.  Loose
    contacts can happen, as noted...

    Good Hunting.
     dwp