strange charging problem on 67

[Walt W.]

My ampmeter was showing a slight discharge at any RPM. I noticed when I reved up to high RPM in neutral the meter would "POP" and the needle would jump over to charge. It would then work as notmal as long as the motor was running, but after turning off the ignition and restarting the same problem would reappear. I bought a new voltage regulator but the problem persists. Anyone have any thoughts?

Thanks, Walt Weems

[Chuck R.]

Re: strange charging problem on 67

Sounds like a funky guage that's hanging up to me Walt.

Chuck

[Duke W.]

Re: strange charging problem on 67

It's ammeter.

On a 40 year old car, connector problems are common, and your symptoms indicate that engine vibration could be a factor by closing a flaky connection as engine vibration increases.

Use a multimeter to check system voltage at startup. Is it in the proper 13.5 to 14.5 volt range? Then rev the engine to see if voltage increases when the ammeter "pops" to the positive side. If voltage is low and then pops up it indicates that there is a problem in the charging circuit. If voltage is okay and doesn't increase with the ammeter reading there is a problem in the meter circuit.

Using the wiring diagram in your CSM as a guide, check all connections including grounds. The mounting is the Delcotron's ground, so the case should show zero ohms to the battery negative post.

If all the connectors check out, remove the alternator and have it tested. Many auto parts stores can test alternators on site.

Duke

[Salvatore I.]

Re: strange charging problem on 67

Walt

I had the same problem; 2 thoughts...

1. Check the wiring harness connections at the bulkhead and make sure that the pins are straight and making contact....sometimes with use, the connectors may loosen or have been forced in creating a bent pin....and
2. Have the battery investigated. If it is a few years old or has been jarred around, I have seen conditions where the condition you describe is an early indication of the battery going bad...One of the battery cells may be bad or the plates may have moved...this will create havoc...I have ssen the ammeter go haywire, move from extremes in the range and then show an undercharged reading at highway speed and yet check out on the volt meter and the battery tender...

Sal