[DeTomaso] Battery question

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 12/6/08 13 43 49, bjbstewart at yahoo.com writes:


> I just put a new Optima Red top battery in the P-car and checked the 
> voltage - 14.78 off, 16.24 at 1500 rpm.  That seems high to me, but thought I'd 
> check. Some more info - the Optima i am replacing was 2.5 years old and would no 
> longer take a charge.  the new battery was a warranty exchange.  2.5 years 
> also seems like maybe there is an issue with the charging system?
> 
> appreciate any ideas...
> 

16.24 volts is WAY WAY too much.   Your voltage regulator has taken a dump, 
and your alternator is cooking your battery!

If you have a stock-style alternator, with an external voltage regulator, 
you're in luck.   The original regulators are mechanical and quite crude, while 
functionally and visually identical units are now solid-state electronic.   
Best of all, they only cost about twelve bucks.

Trot down to your favorite auto parts store and ask for a voltage regulator 
for a '72 Mustang with a 351C.   Then jack up your car, pull the right rear 
wheel and splash shield if you feel it's necessary, and simply unbolt the old 
one, unplug the modular four-wire connector, plug the new one in, bolt it in 
place, and yer done.

Don't forget to disconnect the battery during this operation.

If you have a modern alternator with a built-in voltage regulator, you will 
have to remove it and either have the regulator replaced, or just get a whole 
new alternator.

Mike


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