TheSamba.com :: View topic

Mon Jul 11, 2005 12:43 pm

Over this past weekend, a friend and I converted his 1973 Super Beetle from a Generator to an Alternator. After a few challenges we finally got the Alternator in and wired. However, we now have a problem wherein the Alternator (Generator) light does not go on when the key is switched to the "on" position. We double checked all the wiring and confirmed that we wired the alternator correctly. We tested the bulb for the alternator light and it is good. As we are both novices with our VW's, I was wondering if anyone would have any insight or suggestions as to why the Alternator light is not working and what steps we should take to possibly rectify the problem.

Thanks in advance for any help.

Rob

Tue Jul 12, 2005 12:27 am

i went through the same problem w/ my '73 super... does the kit you put in have you using any part of the old regulator? (was the problem for me)

...the way i fixed my problem was to get the external regulator for a '74 standard beetle(metal/plastic 4-wire cigarette pack under the rear seat)
and a color wiring diagram ( see tech in the uper right corner)
...on the '74 the warning light runs off of the D+ on the alt, it's connection is under the rear seat (stock) if memory serves it's a blue wire but I bump my head a lot so double check.
... your '73 gen/alt light also has something to do w/ your brake circuit warning light.
...and as always check for continuity...connections/fuses
...the spaghetti system in the VW is not that hard to understand, get a good map ('cause it's a long strange trip) and always, always, always expect that the PO was a "wire butcher"