slickfx3

no turn signals, headlights ok, all power windows sluggish.... could it be my alternator?

slickfx3

ttt, c'mon please, it just surprised me with this electrical issue, some guidance or opinions from experts needed

MelWff

Using a voltmeter check the voltage at the large single post alternator terminal located on the back of the alternator. You should get over 13 volts with the engine running.

slickfx3

ok i will try

slickfx3

i took the alternator to autozone, they ran the test 3 times and it passed

they recommend i buy the rebuilt one and put it in to rule out intermittent failure of the alternator...since mine is already out, which i somewhat agree... so i ordered it in at 5pm pacific time

is this sound thinking or do i have a larger issue?

74 LS4-454

No expert here, but another way to check is by using the volt meter on the battery. with the engine off, if I remember correctly you should have at least 12V or it may be a little less (can't remember), now start the engine and again hold the pins to both the positive and negative posts on the battery, and you should be around 13.8V or as high as 14.1V at the battery. If you have that you should be ok, if your higher like at 15V, then you may have an overcharging problem.
Is your engine revving @ 2000r's or is just that the needle is pegged there and you are at idle???
And no turn signals at all? How about your 4-way flashers?
How old is your battery?

MelWff

with the engine running pull the two wire plug. The larger of the two wires should read over 12 volts the smaller wire a very low voltage. The plug connector is a common failure point.

slickfx3

thanks very much for helping me think


the lame alarm installer pulled a 20 amp fuse that i found behind my kick panel laying there i plug it in and the car "behaves" properly now

and to answer your questions no the 4 way flasher and turn signals did not work and the 2000 r was stuck and did not respnd to the engine, it "died" at 2000, battery is new and cranks like a ******

slickfx3

thanks MelWff read above, all is good now

74 LS4-454

If my post helped you think, then that is a good thing.....

Does your statement above "behaves properly now" mean the flashers and turn signals are working now???

glad you are up & running!!!

hugie82

Don't forget to rev the engine above 2500rpm. Most of these new alternators are self exciting and won't turn on unless revved.

slickfx3

yes thanks running and indicating fine!!

slickfx3

ok i drove it to the bank and went over 2500 rpm