[93lxrag]

Hey all. I have a 1993 lx convertible with an alternator problem. the other day when i pulled into work the alt belt started squealing. that night when i left i checked the belt and it was fine (less than 6 mos old) but the amp meter was very low (at the "o" in normal) and the lights were dim. it made it home ok but the next morning it wouldnt crank. i charged the battery and it started up but the belt started sqealing again internittantly but without the lights on the gauge was reading higher. I was told you can put a screwdriver on the back of the alt with it running and if it has magnetic pull its working. i tried this and it has a strong pull. I'm wondering if this could possibly be the voltage regulator going bad or possibly something else.

sorry about the long post but i wanted to describe it as best i could. :nogrinner
thanks Bernie

 

[302lx]

it does sound like voltage regulator! you could check with a volt meter. is it the stock 65amper? if so go bigger when you get a new one! at least 130amp i got the 3g 200 amp from ebay good deal! as long as you upgrade the wiring!:bigthumbsup

 

[93lxrag]

Thanks! i'm going to grab a volt meter shortly. this car has all power windows A/C etc.. is the 65 amp the factory unit for this car? i really see no need to go higher as its totally stock and the alt/regulator has been fine for almost 3 years. right now my main concern is getting her back on the road so i can go "topless" on these warm KY days and nights.

 

[TOM RENZO]

OK start the car and read the voltage at the battery at 1200 RPM'S. What is it ?? Should be 14-14.7 volts on a charged battery. Then start loading the alt down by turning heavy load accessories on. Does the voltage drop and the belt squeal?? If so the belt is SLIPPING. Does the auto tensioner keep good preasure on the belt?? If not it the belt may be to long. Try this with the engine OFF(NOT RUNNING) Try to spin the alt by the alternators fan. Can you turn it. If you can and the pulley slips over the belt their is not enough tension or the belt is to long. The only alternator that is bigger is the 3G and its only 130A but this is at high RPM'S. A 65 is plenty and adequate for your car. You may just have a bad alt also you have some troubleshooting to DO. Dont just install a big alt in and say GREAT. You must find out why its doing this. Its called TROUBLE SHOOTING. I cant believe that a 3 G is rated at 200A A 200A alternator is GIGANTAC. Someone is FIBBING. Their is no way a G3 housing can supply that kind of CURRENT. How big is the battery LUG on the unit. A 1/4 inch nut and bolt can only handle app 100AMPS. A 200 amp alt has a 3/8 bolt or bigger. Peace Tom