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Not charging

Tiny
JEFF HERMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 1964 DODGE DART
  • 2.2L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 100,000 MILES
I took my 1964 Dart 270 out the other day. I noticed the battery gauge was pinned to full charge. This was not normal. I just thought it was bringing the battery up to full charge. After a while the gauge dropped but still not to it's normal position. It was at 3/4, usually just to the right of center. Later that night the gauge went to left of center and when I checked with a multi-meter it was not charging. I checked all the connections and the alternator leads for continuity and all were okay. I cleaned the points in the regulator too. It is still not charging and I don't want to jump to replacing anything without doing some troubleshooting first. What do you think has happened? Are there some more steps I can take to further diagnose the issue? Thank you for your assistance as always.
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Monday, September 16th, 2019 AT 3:58 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
Good evening,

I would replace the regulator. That is what controls the output of the alternator.

Roy
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Monday, September 16th, 2019 AT 4:04 PM
Tiny
JEFF HERMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 444 POSTS
Should I get the alternator bench tested?
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Monday, September 16th, 2019 AT 4:06 PM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
You could but if it is overcharging, chances are it is good.

Use a voltmeter and test the voltage at the battery with the engine running.

It should be 14 to 14.5 volts.

Roy
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Monday, September 16th, 2019 AT 4:10 PM
Tiny
JEFF HERMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 444 POSTS
It's not charging at all.
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Monday, September 16th, 2019 AT 4:34 PM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
Okay, then have the alternator checked. I would replace both the alternator and regulator.

Roy
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Monday, September 16th, 2019 AT 4:43 PM
Tiny
JEFF HERMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 444 POSTS
Okay, thanks. I'll let you know what happens.
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Monday, September 16th, 2019 AT 4:48 PM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
You are welcome.

Always glad to help.

Roy
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Monday, September 16th, 2019 AT 4:51 PM

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