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MG MGA - Generator Saves the Day

Well, I am happy and surprised. I noticed yesterday that my starter was turning a bit slow.

I was returning from a meeting, it was about 8pm and it was also a holiday here in Japan. Needless to say the roads were super, super crowded with lots of stop and go. Temperature-steady, oil pressure-ok, generator light-not even dimly lit, stereo-blinking on and off. Ah! Must be low voltage when the generator is not spun up. Speed up the engine and it comes on.

Well, I made it home, shut it down to put the top up, and when I went to move it it was dead. Battery had 12 volts but no amps. Jump started it, checked the voltage output-good. Must be the battery. I will take it to the shop and have it charged and load tested. WOn't be surprised if it's gone. Batteries here have a way of just dying. When they do they are junk.

The generator kept me running with the lights on and the fan blowing all the way home. Beats the alternator I put on that was DOA. Good thing I re-brushed it and added new bearings. I now have a renewed confidence in the ol' generator.
Tommy

Tommy - Be sure that you run the fan belt loose and the generator will be happy for years to come. If you haven't seen it, see my article on fan belt tension on T series cars, MGA and early MGBs at: http://www.omgtr.ca/technical/tdtf_fan_belt/loosen_up.htm
cheers - Dave
David DuBois

Dave, as a matter of fact, when I replaced my generator (after the failed alternator) I used a new belt and adjusted it per your recommendation. I had printed that article out and had it ready to go.

Thank you for the reminder.

Tom
Tommy

Hi Tommy. If you test the generator, and it is OK, then you might want to test the voltage regulator. The new one I installed was set incorrectly, leaving me stranded with a dead battery several times, until I tested and re adjusted the regulator. Adjusting the regulator isnt terribly difficult. Cheers, Glenn
Glenn

Hi Glenn,

as a matter of course, I will do an adjustment on the regulator.

After reading some of Barney's information I did some checking while the battery was re-charging. I found that the contact bolt at the back of the starter is loose. I think this a a contributing factor.
Tommy

This thread was discussed between 10/10/2006 and 11/10/2006

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