CRG Discussion Forum

Camaro Research Group Discussion => Maintenance => Topic started by: dalekerr on April 11, 2010, 11:03:03 PM

Title: Gen Light
Post by: dalekerr on April 11, 2010, 11:03:03 PM

The Gen light on my just restored 1968 RSSS 350 does not come on until the car is running. Sometimes right away other times after driving 30 minutes. I have had the alt, checked ok changed the voltage regultor, checked all the connections and ground. I have not checked the dash circiut board yet. Any suggestions before I pull the dash out?

Dale Kerr ???

Title: Re: Gen Light
Post by: pjbizjak on April 12, 2010, 12:07:53 AM

Some how you might have reversed the polarity!?

Title: Re: Gen Light
Post by: Sauron327 on April 12, 2010, 12:09:14 AM

Check the voltage at the back of the alternator with engine running. Also, if 100% origionality is not a concern, consider running a Wells VR715 voltage regulator.

Title: Re: Gen Light
Post by: dalekerr on April 12, 2010, 12:26:23 AM

The regulator has been replaced with a solid state model. ? how Could I have reversed the polarity? I did a frame off resteration, but used the original wiring harness. The car was a running bucket off rust before the restoraion but the gen light was functioning properly before.

Title: Re: Gen Light
Post by: Boston14 on May 27, 2010, 02:58:01 PM

I would do a proper alternator check. By this I mean to disassemble it and electrically test each component. Sounds like a possible diode problem (always check diodes with a diode tester not an ohm meter).  Always remember, new means new, and does not necessarily mean good.


boston14
1969 RS/SS 350 Conv.

Title: Re: Gen Light
Post by: fireZ on May 27, 2010, 07:54:46 PM

I had the same trouble years back and it ender up being a small screw that goes up between the Speedo and Fuel pods. It grounds out the bezel . There was a small steel tang that the screw went through into the steel dash. Just a thought

Title: Re: Gen Light
Post by: mikefam on May 29, 2010, 11:13:10 AM

If memory serves me there is a hole in the back of the generator where you can insert a large paper clip or other metal and short the field circuit of the alternator to ground while checking the voltage on the large battery post of the alternator. Shorting the field circuit forces the alternator to full output and you should see the voltage increase. If the voltage increases then the alternator is working and the regulator or wiring should be inspected next.  I'm sorry that I can't explain better where this hole is but I haven't looked closely at one in years. Maybe a local mechanic or friend can help you out there.

DO NOT short the field for more than a second or two or you will damage the alternator.

Mike.