Alternator light??

howie · Unread post by **howie** » 03 Nov 2004, 04:12

My Xantia HDI 2000W alternator light flickers every now and then from a cold start up[:(!] I've not had chance to check the voltage it's kicking out, but I'll give it a check tomorrow. Any ideas as to what the most probable cause is likely to be ie diode pack?
Thanks

jeremy · Unread post by **jeremy** » 03 Nov 2004, 04:24

Sounds like diodes to me. Could be zenner I suppose but probably doesn't make much difference as if you are intending to replace the control unit it will all come as one.
If you put a meter in it the voltage will be severely down if it is the diode - about 10 or 11 volts. You will probably find the indicators and the wipers are slow and the lights are dim.
I had the opposite and the zenner went (I think) - result the wipers went beserk and the lights improved dramatically. I'd have left it if it wasn't making the battery gas furiously and spread acid everywhere.
jeremy

wrinklet1 · Unread post by **wrinklet1** » 03 Nov 2004, 14:47

Check that the small wire that goes to the alternator is powering up. An alternator needs a 12volt supply to work, if not it won't recharge the battery