Electrical Issues
08-26-2006, 04:40 PM
#2
Drifting
Have you done the additional headlight relay mod? It's my understanding that all of the headlight current runs throught the headlight switch and that it's only a matter of time before things begin to burn up. If you look on Pelican there are lot's of threads about this. I think a user named "Marcus Surco" (the Surco Headlight Relay Kit) manufactures a relay kit with instructions. Or if you're inclined you can make your own using high quality relays and wiring.
08-26-2006, 06:58 PM
#4
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With the car running check your voltage at the battery (also get an assistant to rev it up). Over 14.4V and you have a overcharging problem. It will be the regulator, change it or if you don't have a seperate one change the alternator.
Last edited by nathanUK '81 930 G50; 08-28-2006 at 10:30 AM.
08-26-2006, 09:08 PM
#5
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I think this is what sand_man is reffering: http://members.rennlist.com/msucro1/relaykit.htm
Also, how to re-wire your headlights:
http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarti...amblings-2.htm
http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarti...ngs/rice-2.gif
Also, how to re-wire your headlights:
http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarti...amblings-2.htm
http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarti...ngs/rice-2.gif
08-26-2006, 09:38 PM
#6
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Do you think this is the problem? A couple of guys swear it is the alternator! As well, what about the battery dying intermittently? Thanks for the info on the ignition.
08-26-2006, 10:19 PM
#7
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With the hissing, it sounds like you were cooking the battery with to much charge. As suggested, check your battery while the car is running and see what the charge is. If it's overcharging, I'd replace the alternator first.
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08-27-2006, 12:22 AM
#8
Drifting
Thanks for posting those links, Rocket! If you haven't done this mod, SoFast, you need to...especially if you drive this beast at night.
Now having said this, I agree that you could also have an alternator/voltage regulator problem to boot! In previous experinces with vintage British iron (MG, Austin Healey, Triumph, etc.) and VWs it was usually a faulty voltage regulator and/or alternator/generator that caused my battery to hiss like that. GAD, I HATE ELECTRICAL ISSUES!
Now having said this, I agree that you could also have an alternator/voltage regulator problem to boot! In previous experinces with vintage British iron (MG, Austin Healey, Triumph, etc.) and VWs it was usually a faulty voltage regulator and/or alternator/generator that caused my battery to hiss like that. GAD, I HATE ELECTRICAL ISSUES!
08-27-2006, 05:43 AM
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I always check for undercharging & overcharging before replacing a battery but I have never yet (touch wood) seen one yet that is being overcharged. I bet it doesn't do ecu's/cdi's etc. much good 
08-27-2006, 12:12 PM
#10
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I've had two Triumph TR6's. A 69 and a 75. While it's one of my favorite British cars, it's a love/hate relationship. Lucas, The Prince of Darkness... LOL
Originally Posted by sand_man
In previous experinces with vintage British iron (MG, Austin Healey, Triumph, etc.) GAD, I HATE ELECTRICAL ISSUES!
08-27-2006, 12:38 PM
#11
Drifting
Originally Posted by A930Rocket
I've had two Triumph TR6's. A 69 and a 75. While it's one of my favorite British cars, it's a love/hate relationship. Lucas, The Prince of Darkness... LOL
Didn't mean to add anything off topic, SoFast...at least I'm giving your thread a BUMP!
08-27-2006, 01:12 PM
#12
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It is all good! I am going to sit down and trace this electrical system back. I will also make sure the headlamp upgrade is done. I just wanted to make sure I asked some people with experience to make sure I wasnt going to miss anything.
Last edited by SoFast; 10-02-2007 at 10:58 PM.
08-27-2006, 08:21 PM
#13
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Rev the car to 2K and check the voltage. It should range between 12-14.5. There is range of error in there, but if you are running say 16-18 etc you are cooking your plates in the battery. Or in your case the fibermats. Anything more and you are in trouble. Time for a voltage regulator.
