PLEASE HELP-Electrical Question

[my89lx5 0]

Hey guys,

I am a newb here and I need your expert advice.

I have an 89 LX 5.0. I recently replaced the spark wires and ignition wire. Turns out my ignition wire had serious cracks in it an would not start when it was wet outside. Everything was great. It started fine and ran fine. About 5 weeks ago, the voltage meter would start surging all the way up to 18 volts. The only way to stop it was to turn on all my accessories (heat on full, lights, radio) Well, about a week after that, the battery died. It has been sitting in my driveway ever since. I replaced the battery, but the voltage meter is still surging. PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!!!! I need my car back and I don't want to go through another battery. Is this a bad cable, alternator, silenoid???????

New Battery is already dead!!! What the heck is going on????

I appreciated any insight you can give me.

Thanks

 

[bullitstang1313]

It sounds like you might have a bad voltage regulator. Do you still have a stock alternator. You might want to consider upgrading to a 3rd Generation alternator if you end up replacing yours. You should be able to take the alternator to an auto parts store to be tested.

 

[jrichker]

Another vote for a bad voltage regulator. Most auto parts stores will test your alternator for free.

 

[superhuaman]

Don't get a 3rd generation alternator (3G), get a 6th generation (6G). Lighter than a 3G, more power at idle, less rotating mass, runs cooler, etc.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Ford-Mustang-130-Amp-Alternator-6G-1980-2003_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33573QQihZ004QQitemZ140079076825QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

Eagle Auto Electric sells these on eBay. They are remanufactured, but this is the cheapest price around, better than the parts stores.