Re: scirocco question

[ChuckKuecker <ckuecker@mcs.net>]

At 18:49 11/19/97 -0800, you wrote:
>A quick check to see if your alternator is charging is to remove the
>Negative cable from your battery and then replace it, but don't tighten
>it......leave it loose, but snug enough to start the engine.  After you
>start your engine......remove the negative cable......if the alternator is
>charging, the engine will continue to run.  If it isn't charging....the
>engine will die instantly.
>
If you value your electrical system DON'T DO THIS!! It's called a 'load
dump' in technical terms, and can fry any electronic stuff connected to the
system. The alternator can produce a LARGE 
(>50 volts) surge of voltage if it was charging and you pop the battery lead
suddenly. It won't matter whether you unhook the positive or negative lead.

You might be lucky and get away with this trick, but it is risky! Think of
your engine computer, electronic ignition, stereo, etc...

Using a meter is a safe and easy way to test. Also, you can turn on the
headlights and see if they brighten when the idle is increased. If they stay
dim, the alternator is not charging.

Chuck Kuecker

ckuecker@mcs.net

'83 Scirocco (Katy's car now)
'58 Ghia Convert
'75 Bug
'67 Bug
'63 Bug (*still* for sale)
'91 Vanagon


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