So I installed a new engine wire harness from Todd and installed a new alternator. What causes the GEN light to be on while car is running.
It means the alternator isn't charging the battery. Put a voltmeter across the battery, it should read at least 14 volts with the engine running.
I try and make one change at a time if possible. That way, you know what did what. I take it the GEN light wasn't on prior to the install? Its quite possible you have a new defective alternator. OR- you mashed one of the spades when you put the bulkhead connector back together (been there, done that) Do you have the old alternator you can throw back in?
not to take away from the OP, but I am in the same boat as him. I have already replaced the voltage regulator, and the Gen light is still on. Battery is deffently not being charged, so I think the next step is to replace the Alternator. Even though its only maybe 6 months old.
Also test the alternator output terminal on the back (BAT) and se if you have regulator voltage. You can also jump out the regulator and "full field" the alternator and make it put out full voltage. Jump out the B+ to the field wire. If memory serves me, that the red wire and the blue wore on the regulator plug. I don't have a service manual but maybe Larry can verify.
As far as the GEN light on while the engine is running, the service manual has a few simple tests in it to perform in order to determine the issue.
Check that the wiring terminal nuts aren't loose on the alt and the starter. I had an issue with my GEN light lighting up and flickering at times, and when I pulled the motor (for maintenance to the motor, not because of the GEN light), I noticed the terminal nuts weren't completely tight. When I reinstalled the motor and tightened up the wiring terminal nuts, I haven't had any problems with the GEN light since then.
Adding to this; My alternator is good, Got a new volt regulator and the battery is good. The car is running off the battery and the alternator is not charging the battery but its good. So The only thing I can think of is some sort of wiring issue.
Oh man that's a bummer is the connection at the starter good. I'm about to tackle all my little issues in a few...headed out to the garage...
Joe, I had this gen light on issue when I used a voltage regulator from ebay. Upon further examination it was different than the one I was replacing.
The power from battery to starter just the connection make sure its all tight I believe it goes through alternator loop as well
I have been looking at a wiring diagram. I was also out there with a voltmeter to test the connections, So far Alternator is putting out volts, so I went ahead and checked it at where it goes into the voltage regulator, Its showing the same volts as the Alternator. Then I decided to check the other 3 wires coming out of the voltage regulator, 2 of them are showing an average of 2 volts another is less than 1. Unfortunately I have NO idea the amount of volts it should be. I was just curious on if the voltage regulator needs to be replaced. it is only 4 days old. Now I wish I could check the volts flowing through the starter while the car is running but can't get my hands down there with out burning them. Wish they made a foot long needle for the voltmeters.
Shoot if the parts store isn't to far go swap it out. Just because it's new doesn't mean it's good... There should be a warranty on it.. I also just bought a new regulator.. At my daughter's soccer game now then home to swap it out..
what is a jumper wire? does that bypass the regulator? Thats what I am going to do once the wife comes back with the other car. Good thing I paid a little extra for lifetime warranty This will be the 3rd time I replace that particular regulator.
