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MG MGB Technical - more electricity problems

Well, my MGB has been running nicely, and for quite a while, so I didn't want to have to complain about anything. But just last night I noticed my voltmeter reading really low, and my dash lights seemed dim. I pulled over and they seemed to brighten up, so I continued home with plans to take a look in the daylight. This morning I go out to start her up, and I get nothing but the ticks.

I suspect the battery first, since it's vulnerable (it's been drained to zero juice before), and try jumping it, but while it starts the engine at least trying, it also creates smoke from the back of the alternator. Of course I believe that means the alternator is shot and it's killing the battery too, but I just want to make sure before operating and replacing it. Anyone confirm?

Also, if you're around the area and want to get back to me, you can call me at 812-422-2765. Leave a voicemail if I'm not here, I appreciate all the help I can get.
Jeremy

Jeremy. You either have a battery or an alternator problem. Smoke from the back of the alternator would cause me to suspect the latter if it were my car. I would remove the alternator, put the battery on a charger, take the alternator in to be tested and replace if found bad. (I suspect it will.) You do not mention year. The 68 can be converted to the later, internally regulated alternator. Other models, using the 16 ACR can be converted to the later 18ACR giving slightly higher charging capabilities. Les
Les Bengtson

Jeremy,

I've had much better luck having a good auto electric shop rebuilding my alternators than buying a rebuilt one. If there's a problem later, you know exactly who rebuilt it, and who to take it to.
Also, don't overlook the possibility that the battery has caused the problem, especially as it has been taken down to zero before. Once that has happened, the battery is never quite the same, and a battery that won't hold charge can ruin an alternator, as well as the other way round. Have both the battery and the alternator tested. Most large auto parts houses will do this free.
Paul Konkle

thanks guys for the help. i was actually lucky enough to get ahold of the head of the MG club in my town, and he helped me out a bunch. i got a referral to a good auto electric place, so i'll be bringing in my alternator tomorrow for repair, and probably just replacing the battery since there's almost no way it's going to hold a charge now.

thanks again.
Jeremy

Jeremy-while you have the battery out, make sure you take your ground loose from the compartment wall and clean the surface down to bare metal/use a star washer when reattaching the cable. If it's not a bad connection now, it will be in the future. Been there !
Lowell Wakefield

This thread was discussed between 01/11/2001 and 02/11/2001

MG MGB Technical index

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