Those voltages don't sound possible for a battery that actually runs the
engine, but I guess it must be (I'm assuming you had a good ground for the
voltmeter...if not, it will read very low). Most 12V batteries have next to
nothing for current somewhere around 9-10 volts. And if it died while it
was going back to your place under its own power, it probably *is* a
problem with the charging system (i.e. generator or associated wires).
Here's what probably happened...you charged it enough so that it would
start, and the battery was able to run the engine for a while, but ran down
while on the way home...if your charging system is working properly, I'd
expect the car to keep running as long as you don't shut it off...so don't
chuck that battery yet.
Why does your '79 midget have a generator, anyway? Whether generator or
alternator, take it off, take it to local auto parts store and have it spin
tested.
Nevin
>Well, I think I found the problem. The battery is dying. I used a
>Voltmeter to check everything, and the highest voltage I could get from
>the battery was 5.7. I also checked the ground to the body and the
>positive connection deeper in the engine bay. I also tightened the wires
>going into the main fuse before the fusebox. Then I hooked up my Trans Am
>again, and all of a sudden everything worked! I charged it for awhile, the
>car was running, everything seemed great. Then I was driving it back to my
>place and it died again. The Voltmeter said the battery was putting out
>3V. My brother said the battery is 5 years old and that it's probably bad.
>We hope it's not the generator.
>
>Anyway, the local parts store doesn't have a battery for the Midget -
>where can I get one, or is there a specific part number / brand / model
>number that will work? It's a 1979 Midget.
>
>Thanks again for all the help!
>
>Avi
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