Jackroadkill
06-04-11, 07:50 PM
Hi -
Major problem - have recently been trying to get the old C20NE Cav SRi back on the road but have hit a major snag. There's something seriously freaky going on with the electrics. Firstly there's a big spark (much bigger than usual) when I connect a battery, then she starts okay but flattens the battery within about twenty minutes, even with the engine running. The alternator was thought to be at fault but I've changed it and exactly the same thing happens. I've tried two brand new batteries and the result has been the same. There's a burning smell coming from the alternator as well. I'm at my wits' end, so any ideas will be greatly appreciated. I haven't changed any of the wiring or anything like that. I've checked all the earth straps etc and they're fine. I've connected a multi-meter to the battery and I can see the voltage being "pushed" out of it.
I've tried three different alternators on the engine with the same result. If I disconnect the red power out lead (the one that goes to the battery via the starter motor) from the alternator she runs fine. The alternator is a multi-v pulley Delco-Remy "compact" model.
If anyone has a car running this engine and could help (even by providing pictures of aternator / battery / earth strap connections) I'd be really grateful, as this is really doing my head in now. I need the car back on the road, she's nearly ready for MOT (apart from needing a new master cylinder and servo) and I'dreally appreciate some help.
Cheers,
JR
Major problem - have recently been trying to get the old C20NE Cav SRi back on the road but have hit a major snag. There's something seriously freaky going on with the electrics. Firstly there's a big spark (much bigger than usual) when I connect a battery, then she starts okay but flattens the battery within about twenty minutes, even with the engine running. The alternator was thought to be at fault but I've changed it and exactly the same thing happens. I've tried two brand new batteries and the result has been the same. There's a burning smell coming from the alternator as well. I'm at my wits' end, so any ideas will be greatly appreciated. I haven't changed any of the wiring or anything like that. I've checked all the earth straps etc and they're fine. I've connected a multi-meter to the battery and I can see the voltage being "pushed" out of it.
I've tried three different alternators on the engine with the same result. If I disconnect the red power out lead (the one that goes to the battery via the starter motor) from the alternator she runs fine. The alternator is a multi-v pulley Delco-Remy "compact" model.
If anyone has a car running this engine and could help (even by providing pictures of aternator / battery / earth strap connections) I'd be really grateful, as this is really doing my head in now. I need the car back on the road, she's nearly ready for MOT (apart from needing a new master cylinder and servo) and I'dreally appreciate some help.
Cheers,
JR