5 replies to this topic

[lindley94]

I have a 1994 1.3 rover mini 35, and my alternator light is constantly on, and the previous owner had recently replaced the battery.
Would I need a new alternator or are there some things I should try to rectify it first? Thanks

[Fast Ivan]

does it charge the battery?

[greenwheels]

does it charge the battery?

You could be driving just on the battery that will go flat on you eventually

A voltmeter across the battery with the engine running should give about 14 volts.

[lindley94]

Ok thanks I will give it a test in daylight, not sure if its charging yet, havent driven it much, got it home 2 days ago, so could be running on battery charge

[KernowCooper]

The voltage your looking for at 2000rpm is between 13.7-14.3v which if your not getting and the light is on all the time points towards the alternator is not charging. Voltmeter on the battery do the tests and then either take it to somewhere who does repairs or a exchange unit.

[tiger99]

A quick and not so accurate test is just to switch headlights on, then start and rev the engine. Do the lights get brighter? If so, it is charging, to some extent.

 

However, 99% of the time it usually means a new alternator, as there are very few other common faults that make the warning light come on. but check that the connecting plug is clean, with no sign of anything that could be shorting the thin wire to earth.