C4 dies when alternator is plugged up
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Joined: Apr 2017
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C4 dies when alternator is plugged up
I am looking at buying this 86 C4 with 120k. If the alternator is disconnected, it starts and runs great... But the battery will eventually run down. When it is running, and plug in the alternator, it suddenly dies. Any suggestion?
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Joined: Aug 2016
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From: kent
Sounds like the alternator has an internal short or could be when 12 v is applied to the alternator it causes some kind of internal fault causing it to lock up, stalling the engine.
you could try plugging it in without the belt on to see if you get the same result
you could try plugging it in without the belt on to see if you get the same result
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2000
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From: Epping NH
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 2,649
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A properly functioning alternator sucks up about 2 - 3 HP when charging at full rated output. That kind of load shouldn't cause the engine to stall. If it was a bad bearing - disconnecting the plug wouldn't matter. Chances are that there is some kind of electrical issue with the alternator - meaning that it will need to be rebuilt or replaced.
