Home page
SPONSOR AD SPONSOR AD

Topic: A few new problems

in Forum: C3 Electrical


A few new problems

Posted: 11/4/05 7:37pm Message 1 of 10
Former Member
Send PM
Roseland, NJ - USA
Joined: 12/4/2003
Posts: 966
Vette(s): 1974, 454 with 4 on the floor, matching numbers.

No sooner do I get a problem fixed, when a new one starts . I just had an AC switch, relay, short fixed. During those repairs I had the dash replaced (broke while repairing another problem), I had all the dash bulbs replaced, all the contacts cleaned etc. Two things happened, first, I noticed that the switch/plunger that turns the courtesy lights on, was loose and falling into the hole that holds it. While trying to pull it back out the #%@* wire broke off  and fell into the door jam.

I also noticed that while the car is idling my alt gauge goes below 0 . Not charging ? If I turn off the lights, or raise the idle, the gauge shows normal charging. This is starting to suck !




SPONSOR AD:: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)

A few new problems

Posted: 11/6/05 11:36am Message 2 of 10
Lifetime MemberLifetime Member
Send PM
Canada
Joined: 8/6/2004
Posts: 533
Vette(s): Coupe 74 - 454 Drive it like you stole it!
Can't help you with this new problem, but wanted to tell you that I have been going through the same thing.  While I fix one thing, I discover 2 more problems and I often create other myself.
 
I have a really hard time figuring out my own electric problems.  The only thing I can think of (outside of getting a new alternator...) is to look at what you have outside "normal".  Any new electric fan, aftermarket radio, alarm,... anything that would suck more juice than original.  Also, can you take a reading at the alternator and output of the coil ?
 
 



A few new problems

Posted: 11/7/05 6:28am Message 3 of 10
Former Member
Send PM
Roseland, NJ - USA
Joined: 12/4/2003
Posts: 966
Vette(s): 1974, 454 with 4 on the floor, matching numbers.

When I bought the car I knew that I was going to have to spend time and money on it. Which I did, and continue to do. My biggest problem is that I'm not that mechanically inclined, and I don't have the time and place to do the majority of repairs. So I've had to rely on "corvette" shops who, in most case's, were not so good. I've repaired or replaced just about everything to make the car reliable, brakes, all hose's, vacuum lines, bearings, belts, rad, water pump, PS pump, etc, etc. It becomes quite frustrating after a while.

I will replace the alternator, after I check a few things. Thanks for your suggestions.

Cookie 




A few new problems

Posted: 11/7/05 7:41am Message 4 of 10
Former Member
Send PM
Miramar, FL - USA
Joined: 3/16/2004
Posts: 672
Vette(s): 1972 coupe/350 cid/mild cam/4 spd/20 ft. paint (looks perfect from 20 ft.), but it sure runs nice.

[QUOTE=warbird] So I've had to rely on "corvette" shops who, in most case's, were not so good.[/QUOTE]

I've given up on these so-called shops....found a good "old timer" mechanic and I'm usually there with all sorts of repair and shop manuals. I know exactly what you mean....the more I tinker, the more work I make for myself. But this is what this hobby is all about, tinkering and renewing. Hang in there.

JR




A few new problems

Posted: 11/7/05 7:50am Message 5 of 10
Profile Pic
Former Member
Send PM
Frederick, MD - USA
Joined: 9/8/2003
Posts: 3398
Vette(s): 1969 convertible L71 427/435 4-speed black interior
There's an adage I've been guilty of committing myself..."If it ain't broke, fix it till it is!"


A few new problems

Posted: 11/8/05 6:01am Message 6 of 10
Former Member
Send PM
Roseland, NJ - USA
Joined: 12/4/2003
Posts: 966
Vette(s): 1974, 454 with 4 on the floor, matching numbers.

Gunslinger, you're absolutely right. I'm just trying to prevent (to the best of my ability) a breakdown. I would hate to be stuck on the side of the road, with my "shiny" Vette because I failed to fix, or overlooked, something minor.

BTW, I just p/u my new alternator, and I'll install it this weekend.




A few new problems

Posted: 12/1/05 2:58pm Message 7 of 10
Lifetime MemberLifetime Member
Send PM
PERRYSBURG, OH - USA
Joined: 4/23/2004
Posts: 317
Vette(s): 1975 T-Tops,Lite Custom work,Many engine mod. 700R4 trans. body is shaved,17" wheels bf goodrich g-force tires,heavy sway bars front&rear rack&pinion steering,550 slolom springs with gas shocks.

Patience,Patience,  Trust me after doing seveal vettes I can relate to your frustations. Then all at once it all comes together and somebody walks up and says the majic words WOW-MAN-COOL-CAR!

And you forget the bad days of tracing electrical problems. I got real lucky the guy next door was a real 12 volt nut and loved to trace my electrical problems and fix them. I owe him big time. Best of luck and hang in there your is a real keeper! George




A few new problems

Posted: 12/1/05 6:18pm Message 8 of 10
Profile Pic
Lifetime MemberLifetime Member
Send PM
Greensburg, IN - USA
Joined: 9/24/2003
Posts: 5188
Vette(s): Previous: 1984 Silver / Charcoal Coupe, 1988 Maroon Coupe / 1989 Artic White Coupe / 2001 Speedway White Roadster / Present:1976 Stingray Black / Black, Auto, 350 slightly modified (355 hp) Luxor Wires Redline Tires. / 1989 Roadster Bright Red...
Look at the bright side... It is getting colder out and you and your baby can now bond in a different way.
My wife has accused me many of times of having an affair. (love affair with the car) Funny thing she loves it as much as me. Ain't that somethin!


A few new problems

Posted: 12/1/05 9:12pm Message 9 of 10
Former Member
Send PM
Roseland, NJ - USA
Joined: 12/4/2003
Posts: 966
Vette(s): 1974, 454 with 4 on the floor, matching numbers.
Yea, you're right. When she's running great all my frustrations are out the window. I'll get her 100%, there really isn't much left to do (at least that's necessary). Anyway, she's away for the winter, and I'm planning on what else it needs (or I need) for the Spring.


A few new problems

Posted: 12/2/05 8:07pm Message 10 of 10
Standard Member
Send PM
Pasadena, MD - USA
Joined: 6/16/2004
Posts: 311
Vette(s): 72 Coupe L48 4 sp Air Tilt Leather

Yeah, I think everyone can relate.

The time before last I drove Ol' Blue, parking it in the garage I blew a brand new P/S hose and lost all the fluid in and under the car in about 15 seconds. Man, what a mess. I tried my best to route this sucker the correct way, but she got chafed and it rubbed through....

Then while fixing this I noticed the blower motor was dead too....so I broke a few more things. The hi blower relay fell apart, and the brand new wiring harness was melted through where the ground connection is made to the motor.

So, it doesn't matter if you do it, or it breaks itself, old or new parts......it's a hobby.

Then some dude walks over to me in the gas station and says cool ride....I've got a '60 and it's not running.....makes it all worth it in the end.

Bruce




Bruce
72 Coupe L48 4sp
Custom Blue/Silver/Pearl

(Click for a larger pic)

in Forum: C3 Electrical


SPONSOR AD: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)