70 ELECTRA GENERATOR LIGHT

[jaxops]

I replaced my coil and Voltage regulator, and my generator light is on. I tested the generagtor output and it is in specs. Would that be ground problem?

Thanks.

[NTX5467]

1970 should have an "alternator" rather than a generator.

The light in the instrument cluster works on voltage flowing "the correct way" to stay out (hence . . . "out" = charge, "on" = discharge). If the ground is not completely correct, full output will not be obtained in the vehicle. In some circuits, a poor or failed ground can cause a voltage feedback through an indicator lamp as the electrons try to find a ground.

If you can, you might get a factory Buick Chassis Service Manual and troubleshoot the system. Also add in a digital Volt-Ohm meter (you can find them at Radio Shack, typically) into the mix too.

Also be sure to check the resistance, voltage loss, and continuity of the battery cables. They can look good on the outside and have an internal problem (resulting in as little as 1/2 volt voltage loss from one end to the other, but will cause major operational problem!). It happened to me.

In testing the charging system, the best way to do that is "on the car" with a dealership grade inductive resistance tester, which can load the charging system as it tests it. Auto supply "off the car" testers are not nearly as accurate, but can be just basic diagnostic tools--you get what you pay for.

Just some thoughts,

NTX5467

[jaxops]

Many thanks. I appreciate the information and I will check it out but probably take it in and have a thorough ground check.

[JohnD1956]

Before bringing it in, check the terminals on the old regulator. Are they coroded? Or glazed over? hit them with a little fine sandpaper, See a big difference?

If so I'd consider pulling the wires out of the connector to the new regulator and cleaning them up, then check the light. Also sand the holes in the firewall where the regulator bolts are then re install the regulator. Those 70's cars are just doing that all the time. Cleaning the contacts is just good maintenance.

To get the wires out of the connector, get a small screwdriver, like an eyeglass one, and then holding the connector so it faces you, insert the blade of the driver into connector on the back side of the metal terminals. There is a tab there which you need to compress with the screwdriver, and then the wire will slip out of the connector. You can clean it up and then easily pry the tab back up and return the wire to the connector till it clicks into place.

Be sure to chart where the wires go or just do one at a time.

JD

[jaxops]

John,

I will try that. Sorry about the late response. The light is out right now but I will check all of the terminal ends. Thanks again!