1974 Volkswagen Other charging system

Tiny
PATTYB7
  • MEMBER
  • 1974 VOLKSWAGEN
We have a 1974 VW Sun Bug. The ignition component fell out and we were able to get it back in place without the sleeve and drive it 35 miles home. The battery went dead so we had it tested. We took to someone who was able to obtain the sleeve for the module. We had battery tested and was told ok but needed new voltage regulator which we replaced. Drove it to Ames, Iowa from Des Moines, Iowa (35mi) and battery went dead. Charged battery brought it back to Des Moines and replaced the alternator. Drove back to Ames and battery dead again. Could it be the ignition module? When you try to start it, if you let off on the key you have to go the off position to try again. This is a college student's car so she needs desperately to find out what is going on. Thank you
Tuesday, August 20th, 2013 AT 6:47 AM

8 Replies

Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
Check the red wire going to battery from alternator for volts it should be 13.5-14.3 then check at the regulator the wire may be broken. Then h ave the battery checked once more after it's charged along with a load test. If it doesnt' read 12.4 volts static trash it. Check volts with engine running at about 1200 rpm.
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Tuesday, August 20th, 2013 AT 8:31 AM
Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
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If this is a super beetle check fuses as well and the wiring is different.
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Tuesday, August 20th, 2013 AT 8:35 AM
Tiny
EXOVCDS
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With the key ON engine OFF, the alternator / battery light should be ON. Is it?

Thomas
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Tuesday, August 20th, 2013 AT 3:22 PM
Tiny
EXOVCDS
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Any updates?
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Wednesday, August 21st, 2013 AT 5:03 PM
Tiny
EXOVCDS
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Guess school isn't that important after all.
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Thursday, August 22nd, 2013 AT 5:01 PM
Tiny
PATTYB7
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
There is no battery or alternator light to light up
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Thursday, August 22nd, 2013 AT 7:23 PM
Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
Check for a bulb burnt out or removed form dash then there should be
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Friday, August 23rd, 2013 AT 7:16 AM
Tiny
EXOVCDS
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Is this what your speedo head looks like?

See the little "G" at the bottom of the speedo (to the right of the needle)?

That is the Generator / alternator / battery light.

Should turn ON when the key is ON and should go OFF when the engine is running.

Thomas
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Friday, August 23rd, 2013 AT 3:31 PM

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