[Supras] Anyone have any issues with the Exide Sub

[Hacker J]

I would agree.  There are some fusible links in the path that can blow without being obvious. Also, the IGN and ENGINE fuses need to be good to get the alternator to work. I would check the multi-pin connector at the alternator.  Those wires see heat and flexing and will break over time. Once they break, the alternator will not charge, even if the big main wire is good.

Quick check is to measure voltage with engine off.  Should be around 12.5 - 12.8 Volts.

Next, check that the 'battery' idiot light comes on the dash when you turn the ignition on. That's another check for the alternator wiring.

Finally, start the car, and the voltage should jump up to 13.9 - 15.1V at 25degC, and remain stable over rpm and electrical load.  Turn the lights on and see if it stays in the correct range.  Shouldn't take more than 5 minutes to check if you have a voltmeter handy.

Jon
90T


----- Original Message ----



> Sure sounds like some sort of electrical gremlin drawing current. Even
> with my little Braille battery I can let the car sit for 2 weeks
> without need for a charge, that's about the limit though which is to
> be expected for a battery smaller than that on my mower (11 lb.) :)

Reading Mike's post carefully, you'll see that leaving the car with the ignition off isn't a problem. 
 It can be left for an extended period of time, and it'll start next time...  It's after DRIVING for 
a while, it'll start draining.

This really seems like the charging system isn't doing its job.

The alternator checks out, so it should be okay.  One assumes that the alternator is adequately 
rounded.  :)  The alternator fuse seems to be okay. (I've seen it. :) )

I still think it may be an idea to buy that ammeter at Princess Auto. It'll at least tell you when 
the battery is discharging.  It may be only at idle, and you're spending time with the engine at too 
low RPM...  Difficult to believe from my experience in the passenger seat.  :)  But it will tell you 
under what conditions the battery is draining.

Replacing the battery cables is a reasonable next step as well.  The ground cable particularly is 
known for being problematic.

Dan Gyoba
'89 NA 451,732 kms, Turbo swap COMPLETE
http://www.abstractconsulting.com/~dan









       
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