Alternator won't charge after cluster Swap

lxsteed

Founding Member

Aug 12, 2002

1,009

0

36

Melbourne

Feb 10, 2008

#1

• Feb 10, 2008

• #1

So I'm installing a custom gauge cluster, and have a question about getting my alternator to charge. Right now the autometer volt gauge is tied into a 12v switched source, but I understand that there is a circuit within the stock cluster/harness that allows the alternator to charge. Can anyone explain which wires these are and how I can close it for the car to charge properly?

 

95cobraguy

Member

Dec 23, 2005

637

11

19

Concord, NC by way of LI, NY

Feb 10, 2008

#2

• Feb 10, 2008

• #2

make sure the bulb that illuminates the little battery on the cluster is there.

 

lxsteed

Founding Member

Aug 12, 2002

1,009

0

36

Melbourne

Feb 10, 2008

#3

• Feb 10, 2008

• #3

Cobraguy, I need to wire a bulb inline somehow? I no longer have the cluster to reference.

 

BlownFiveLiter

have car, will race....wait, it doesn't run

15 Year Member

Nov 29, 1999

3,133

18

108

Chicagoland

Feb 10, 2008

#4

• Feb 10, 2008

• #4

There is a circuit which allows the alternator to excite with the ignition on, so it will charge. Did you disturb any wiring in the steering column at all? Here's a couple wiring diagrams from Autozone's website that might help locate the wires you're looking for.

Interior/body diagram:

Underhood charging system diagram:

 

M

methemike1

New Member

Mar 18, 2006

41

0

0

Sioux City, Iowa

Feb 10, 2008

#5

• Feb 10, 2008

• #5

Are you sure that the alt isn't charging or is the volt gauge just not working? have you tried testing the voltage at the alt or the battery?

 

lxsteed

Founding Member

Aug 12, 2002

1,009

0

36

Melbourne

Feb 10, 2008

#6

• Feb 10, 2008

• #6

The voltmeter sits right around 11-12 volts and does not change. It used to vary with the rpms before. At the battery while the car is running, I get 11.62 Volts. I have a battery tender that I've been leaving on, and have noticed after a while of sitting, and turning the key, it will show about 12v, then dip down once the car is running.

I have not messed with any of the wires on the column, other than maybe moving them slightly since the cover is off.