Sounds like several issues:
1. Battery only gets fully charged by external battery charger, not by
alternator.
2. Ammeter never goes positive with headlights on.
3. Car will not start unless battery at full charge.
Troubleshooting is same for all three: Test alternator, battery, and
double-check wiring & grounds (always check those pesky grounds). The GM alt
has an internal voltage regulator. You can have it tested at your FLAPS or
an automotive electrical repair place. Got a known, good spare battery? Swap
'em out.
More exact voltages would help, i.e. at idle (800-1000 rpm) the output is
12.43v, at 3500 rpm it's 14.5v, etc.
What does battery read fully charged?
How old is the battery?
Pete
-----Original Message-----
From: datsun-roadsters-bounces@autox.team.net
[mailto:datsun-roadsters-bounces@autox.team.net] On Behalf Of Tim
Sent: Tuesday, June 21, 2011 6:07 PM
To: datsun-roadsters: autox.team.net
Subject: [Roadsters] battery not charging
First off: I am an electrickery novice. Big time.
This is a new condition this spring: 70 1600 w/ gm alternator upgrade
done three or four years ago. Alt is putting out over 12 volts at 600
rpm idle; more at higher rpm. Battery is over 12 volts once charged with
battery charger. But car won't start if battery does not have most of a
fresh charge from the charger. Amp meter will go into the negative if I
turn on the head lights but never goes into the positive any more.
Is this my regulator going (gone) bad? How do I test it?
Thanks
Tim
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