Alternator

[anokabball24]

Well, my car (86 Omni GLHT) has been running bad lately. The first break down resulted in what appeared to be a wet logic module...so I dried the circuit board with a blow dryer, and dryed the connections aswell. Plugged it back in and the car fired right up. However, the next day I was driving, and my battery seemed very low, and it wouldn't charge . . . drove about 50 miles and the gauge needle was pinned on about 10v . . . wouldn't move up. Lights were dimming, and stuff like that. Then eventually my "Power Loss" light came on, and the car just went dead, no battery.

I'm having the battery charged and checked at CarQuest today, to see if maybe I have an old batt that just won't hold a charge or take a load. If that's not the case, what are some other indicators? Did something fry in the LM? Do I need new capacitors? Bad alternator? If so, what's a good aftermarket/OEM alternator I should go with?


-Tony-

[minimopar]

My guess would be something in the LM. Once it is back together, go for a spin and then check your codes. See if it detects any charging issues.

When electronics get wet, electrolysis can occur that can create bridges over solder joints. It shows up as a greyish-white residue. The result can be perminent damage due to these shorts, but often you can clean them off and it will recover. Get an old tooth brush and some acetone and scrub both sides of the board. Water can also cause corrosion of the connectors, so inspect the LM pins carefully and look for any green stuff inside the plugs on the harness.

[anokabball24]

Thanks, I'm wondering if it's the VR......and if so, are there any codes that will tell me if my VR is out. Same for the alternator.

[turbovanman]

If the reg/LM goes out, it will set codes. If you search my name and alternator, you will find a few threads on how to properly diagnose it and in our FAQ section, how to wire in an external reg.