Alternator on the way out?

[roseytvr]

12volts stationary 14volts on tick over but when I go on a run its now getting up to 16 volts when it's moving. Furthermore on tick over with the lights on I notice they are pulsating dim to bright in time with the tick over. Any ideas folks? Do i just drive it and ignore the volt meter or is alternator terminal and best replaced before the inevitable breakdown. Thanks

[phazed]

I don't know the electronic technicalities but when I had this on another car the alternator gave up a while later, probably overcharging.

If it's the original, I would fit a new OE one as a matter of course.

HTH

[roseytvr]

Thanks Peter - As I feared! Just a little concerned its happened so soon after new engine fitted, hope it's not related to increased under bonnet temps! Anyone know what it is?

[tvrgit]

roseytvr said:

Thanks Peter - As I feared! Just a little concerned its happened so soon after new engine fitted, hope it's not related to increased under bonnet temps! Anyone know what it is?

Voltage regulator on back of alternator. If you're lucky an autoelectrician might be able to change the regulator and keep the alternator. If not then it's new alternator time. Don't put it off - exploding batteries are not fun.

[Sardonicus]

roseytvr said:

12volts stationary 14volts on tick over but when I go on a run its now getting up to 16 volts when it's moving. Furthermore on tick over with the lights on I notice they are pulsating dim to bright in time with the tick over. Any ideas folks? Do i just drive it and ignore the volt meter or is alternator terminal and best replaced before the inevitable breakdown. Thanks

Knackered voltage regulator change the alt or get it repaired straight away

[roseytvr]

Thanks guys, got the alt off and will get it sorted, could heat be the cause?

[phazed]

Doubt it, they don't last forever!

[roseytvr]

Regulator it was, job done, alternator saved.
Thanks guys

[tvrboy55]

who fixed your regulator, ie, electrician, car machanic or alternater firm.

[roseytvr]

Auto electrician in Burton on Trent, excellent service

[tvrboy55]

excellent. any tips and advice is good to know for the future.