I have interesting problem. Every time i stat my carbed 900 GL beater, charge light is on and the car is not charging (dim lights) until i rev the engine a bit. Then it's working perfectly normal until next restart.
I bought two new belts (old are wery worn, at least one of them) and will change them as soon as weather permits.
Are my belt(s) slipping until i rev it or what's happening?
Thanx!
Replace the brushes if the rotor does not have deep grooves in it. Otherwise replace the alternator.
------ MH '72 97 '77 96 '78 95 '79 96 '87 900T8
Hmm...but it works at idle after i "initiate it" first by revving it after the start?
Should i replace it anyway?
MH wrote:
Yes, do as MH suggests - the brushes are worn. When you rev, you loosen them up a little and they make contact. Their time has come.
Yes, they are (as MH said in his first reply :-), but you need to check the stator for grooves/pitting when you remove the brush pack. As long as it's clean, you only need new brushes.
My 1986 900C always did this, never gave any problems, and I was told it was normal by the Saab independent in Yeovil last year; it just needs enough voltage to switch over to charging each time you start the engine. I wouldn't get too excited!!!
yes, they come as a small block with an integrated voltage regulator, attached to the back of the alternator with two small screws. Try a Bosch service center for replacement..
check the ROTOR for grooves
How? after you removed the brush block, stick a finger in the hole and feel if there are two parallel grooves in the copper of the rotor. If there are deep grooves (> 1-2 mm) it is not worth replacing the brushes as they will wear rapidly. In this case replace the entire alternator for a new or rebuilt or salvaged one.
--------- MH
Slip of the tongue. My bad.
Or should that be "commutator"? ;-)
-- Andrew Stephenson
Yes, that would be the 100% correct name for the copper strips that you have to check for grooves.....
--------- MH
It's a commutator if it's truly a generator, but if it's an alternator then it uses slip rings.
Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
Ask the community — no account required