73Coupe
Senior Member
I have the usual headlight dimming issue when at idle, so I thought I would start to work on that. Actually, all lights dim. Dash, dome, etc. Also, my radio reception is poor at idle, when I step on the gas, the static goes away and reception is clear again.
Previously, I had read this post on mymopar.com: MyMopar - Mopar Forums & Information - Mopar Headlight Dimming Issues
Here's how my system checks out...voltage at batt:
OFF: 12.8v
ON, Idle: 15.37 v (!)
ON, Idle, w/ everything on: 12.8-13.0v
ON, 2500 rpm: 15.37 v
ON, 2500 rpm, everything on: 15.67v
Positive voltage drop: 0.15v
Negative voltage drop: 0.002v
Field wire (green) ground test: good
Should it be around 14v?
Headlights still dim at idle! Despite 15 volts at batt.
Replaced regulator. Still 15+ volts.
Oh, and the dash ammeter doesn't move at all. Car off or on, any RPM. It always reads just a tad to the right of center. Isn't it supposed to move?
The FSM outlines a very detailed way to check the system, including using a carbon pile rheostat for placing a load on the battery. Where the heck does one get one of those? There must be a simpler way, right?
So, a call to expert advice out there...if anybody is well versed in the 'Ma' charging system of the early 70s.
Thx.....73
Previously, I had read this post on mymopar.com: MyMopar - Mopar Forums & Information - Mopar Headlight Dimming Issues
Here's how my system checks out...voltage at batt:
OFF: 12.8v
ON, Idle: 15.37 v (!)
ON, Idle, w/ everything on: 12.8-13.0v
ON, 2500 rpm: 15.37 v
ON, 2500 rpm, everything on: 15.67v
Positive voltage drop: 0.15v
Negative voltage drop: 0.002v
Field wire (green) ground test: good
Should it be around 14v?
Headlights still dim at idle! Despite 15 volts at batt.
Replaced regulator. Still 15+ volts.
Oh, and the dash ammeter doesn't move at all. Car off or on, any RPM. It always reads just a tad to the right of center. Isn't it supposed to move?
The FSM outlines a very detailed way to check the system, including using a carbon pile rheostat for placing a load on the battery. Where the heck does one get one of those? There must be a simpler way, right?
So, a call to expert advice out there...if anybody is well versed in the 'Ma' charging system of the early 70s.
Thx.....73