Amp gauge bypass

[OSDart]

After performing the MAD amp gauge bypass, I noticed that my voltage regulator has an intermittent charge cycle.
I know, I know, I know!!!!!
But it'll charge normally (14.4v) for a couple hours and then discharge to 5-6v until the car dies. I tried two different VR's that I know are good. Same results.
My question is. Is this bypass procedure for one-wire alternators only, or does it matter?

 

[bearman]

I guess this didnt do it before you made the change

 

[OSDart]

The charging system was A OK before the bypass surgery. I've triple checked the wiring and it's right. I would think the 16g and/or the 14g fuseable links would burn if there was an issue with the wiring.

 

[miller]

But it'll charge normally (14.4v) for a couple hours and then discharge to 5-6v until the car dies.

Every time?? Can't tell you for sure, on the different VRs. Have a volt meter wired in?

 

[bearman]

Break it down first check alt output. Them the vr then the volt meter. In the alt couple different things going on. You have caps diodes etc could be after warming up one is shutting down and only allowing x voltage. Second are you sure the grounds are correct. You should have a bog post on the alt does it drop voltage or does it always maintain 14.5

 

[OSDart]

I've done this bypass on several cars without any issues. However, all were the one wire alternator. Owner wants to keep everything as stock, and looking, as stock as possible.

 

[wagonman]

Why not take the VR out of the equation. Full field the alt, that should warm it to the point of component failure. Dont do it for to long you will fry the battery and good thing you have the bypass or worse things could happen. If you have access to an old Sun Scope you could look at the Alt wave form that can pick up a bad diode. I just picked up a VAT-60 that will load the system to the point of Max amp output. Finds trouble in a hurry. I had an issue with an intermittant no charge. Finially found when hot at RPM the solder joint in the rotor at the brush contact was cracked, would not pick it up with bench testing. Can you disassemble the alt and start looking around?

 

[miller]

Can you disassemble the alt and start looking around?

Or, just pull the alt, and get it tested.

 

[Nacho-RT74]

Everytime I read "amm bypass" my brain blowns LOL