Electrical Questions

[bobb@domain.elided (Bob Blair)]

>I want to ... forget about electrical problems.

Lease a Saturn.  I can't be the only Scout owner to keep a test light in
the console.  If you bypass the bulkhead connectors (probably the worst
design on the Scout) you still have 20 y\o light sockets, etc.  
Occasional electrical probs are part of the deal...

Mostly you can fix 'em with emery cloth, dielectic grease & elbow grease.

Bob
77 Scout II  <-- dim bulbs, occasional outages, daily driver


>Date: Wed, 28 Apr 1999 11:48:12 -0400
>From: ldupliss@domain.elided

>
>Digesters-
>
>I am planning on replacing my 30 amp alternator with a 90 amp on my '79 SII
>(as soon as I finish moving).  I also plan on upgrading the main wires so
>that they will handle the increase.  However, I want to make sure there
>aren't other things I should do at the same time.  What and where is the
>regulator?  Should I replace at the same time as the alternator?
>
>My amp gauge NEVER moves into the "C" zone.  If I turn on lights, the
>needle drops DEEP into the "D" zone.  The more draw, the slower my blinkers
>work.  Also, when the lights are on, the blinker indicators inside the cab
>glow; sometimes faintly, sometimes very brightly.   I have wiggled my
>bulkhead connectors, but did not notice a difference.
>
>I know little about auto electrical systems, but want to learn.  Can anyone
>point me in the right direction as to how to clear this problem up.  It
>seems like there may must be several small things causing my problems.
>
>Should I just buy one of those "painless wiring" wiring harnesses and start
>over?  That seems like over-kill to me, but if it is the right thing to
>do... I want to do it right once and forget about electrical problems.
>
>TIA,
>Skip