[DavidConv65]

I bought a 65 convertible which had not been running for about two years. I cleaned it up and got it started. Here are some problems I have noticed. The charging system needle bounces around alot, Sometimes it is pegged and then I turn a blinker on and it bounces. When not running, the needle sits somewhere in the middle. I was told the Voltage Regulator could be the culprit but replacing it did not help. I did notice one wire hanging loose and taped up off the connector that snaps into the voltage regulator? The dash lights are also very dim. At first I thought they were not working but then noticed they were dimly lit. Recently, when I tried to start the car I got the sound like there just wasn't enough juice to start....then on another try, nothing, then on susequent tries it started. The interior lights and radio were working strong so I do not think it is the battery. These problems may be unrelated....two or three problems at once? I was going to start next with the starter selenoid, but the guy at the parts store said it could be the starter. As far as the charching sytem guage acting nuts, I think I should also try replacing the alternator. Any advice on where to start or opinion on whether I have one or several problems? I'm not a real mechamic but can change parts if I know what to change. Thanks, David

[fastbck65]

Is your connection from your battery to your soleniod clean? Clean all terminals and connecting points and ground wires. If the problem still exists start looking into alternator components. Also check the brushes in your alternator.

[lads_john]

Any good parts store should be able to test your alternator if u drop it in.

[JamesW]

You need to have a copy of the 1965 Ford Mustang Shop Manual. It has all the basic information to troubleshoot your electrical system.

[quick67]

you said that you taped up a wire that you noticed hanging...check for any more that might be worn out..i woudl suggest testing the altinator and battery then maybe a new wiring harness

[DavidConv65]

Thanks folks. I'll start by checking connections, checkng the alternator, and then go from there. Much appreciated.

[Lib]

have your battery load tested, too. Working lights are not an indicator of a good battery. Cranking a starter requires mega-amps. If the car sat unused for 2 years, you may very well have a bad plate or two in your battery from sulfication.

[Jay H 237]

Was the wire you taped off yellow with a black female plug? If it was then it's the wire that the radio capacitor plugs into and that wouldn't have anything to do with the charging problem.

Right now I'm leaning towards the battery being bad. If the battery was real weak and you got the car running then you may also have fried the alternator (alternator death) from trying to charge a battery that weak.

[meangreen92]

Also, make sure you've got the ground strap between the engine and the car body. If that ground is missing or bad, it can cause all kinds of anomilies inside of the car.
+1 on checking/replacing the battery cables.