Bulkhead Connector Bypass Step by Step

XP29 · Post by **XP29** » Sun Jul 03, 16 8:54 am

After sitting overnight I just put the meter on the battery, it's reading 13.05v. Going to start it in a bit and see what output is.

SJH · Post by **SJH** » Sun Jul 03, 16 12:24 pm

I think 13V is too high for a 12V battery. 16V charging is too high, it should be regulated to 14.5V. The 16V unregulated charging is damaging the battery I think

Shayne

XP29 · Post by **XP29** » Mon Jul 04, 16 10:16 pm

After getting readings all over the place on Sunday, ending with it seemingly not charging I have taken the alternator to a local place to be tested, they said it was shot. So I'm replacing that, I have a solid state regulator already on the way over. So should be all good with those.

Is there a way of me testing the wiring/circuit that runs to the regulator and alternator. As I've unplugged the bulkhead connector to fix the ammeter circuit, I'm wondering if there is or I've created an issue there. If I start it up and ave voltage at the regulator am I all good?

Pete · Post by **Pete** » Mon Jul 04, 16 10:46 pm

XP29 wrote: ......Is there a way of me testing the wiring/circuit that runs to the regulator and alternator. As I've unplugged the bulkhead connector to fix the ammeter circuit, I'm wondering if there is or I've created an issue there. If I start it up and ave voltage at the regulator am I all good?

If you have a simple multi-meter and know how to use it, then it is a pretty straight forward affair to test the loom out.

You are not only looking for continuity for the wires, but you also need to test for short circuits - either between the wires themselves, or the wires and ground (earth).

XP29 · Post by **XP29** » Mon Jul 04, 16 11:14 pm

I do have a meter, need to get my head around the wiring diagram. Want to satisfy myself the wires going through the bulkhead are ok after it's been disturbed.

MilesnMiles · Post by **MilesnMiles** » Tue Jul 05, 16 7:00 am

You've probably got this but it shows the wires and colours too.
Wiring to alternator is very straightforward.

http://www.mopar1.us/charge.html

XP29 · Post by **XP29** » Tue Jul 05, 16 9:55 am

Thanks for that. I need to get under the dash and test the continuity of cables from ign switch to regulator and ballast resistor so I know my taking the bulkhead plug off hasn't disturbed something.

MilesnMiles · Post by **MilesnMiles** » Tue Jul 05, 16 11:40 am

I'd fit the new parts and do a regular voltage check. Hopefully the new parts will remedy the problem if you already know the alternator is shot

XP29 · Post by **XP29** » Tue Jul 05, 16 9:31 pm

New alternator is on, just waiting on the regulator. Using the wiring diagram I have tested out all the associated wiring in the engine bay and all is ok. Going to try and test out the cables from bulkhead to ign switch tomorrow. Then wait on the regulator.

XP29 · Post by **XP29** » Tue Jul 12, 16 1:41 pm

New solid state regulator arrived today, looks great as its stock in appearance. Put it on and I'm now getting a steady 14.8v while it's running.

latil · Post by **latil** » Tue Jul 12, 16 2:06 pm

That's it.

XP29 · Post by **XP29** » Tue Jul 12, 16 3:46 pm

Looks ok too, I'm not a massive purist but it blends in well.

XP29 · Post by **XP29** » Wed Jul 13, 16 3:30 pm

Is it right I should be getting 14.8v all the time when the engines running? Been for a good hour plus run today and it's still measuring that.

XP29 · Post by **XP29** » Thu Jul 14, 16 9:07 am

Can anyone help with my readings to let me know if all is well please?

I'm getting 14.8v while it's running, but that's even after a good run, it's constantly around 14.8v. From looking around that figure is borderline to when the battery could be gassing?

When switched off and rested it drops to 13.1v, that's even after sitting for 18 hours.

Should the running charge voltage be a bit lower? Should it drop when the battery is charged and not stay at 14.8v after an hours run? The battery is a newish (year old) Varta. Am I worrying over nothing or could the battery be damaged from the previous faulty alternator/regulator?

Bryan · Post by **Bryan** » Thu Jul 14, 16 10:44 am

Im not an expert but have a feeling that the voltage you are reading is fine but sure someone will be along to clarify.

Few bits here about voltage.

http://www.moparuk.com/forums/viewtopic ... ht=voltage