TheSamba.com :: View topic

Sun Feb 16, 2014 7:44 am

Ok sorry if this is going over old ground, I did try searching but 6V is too short for the search engine.

This is my first experience of 6V so need a couple of pointers.

The bug is a 64 1200cc completely stock. I like that fact it is completely stock and I would like to persevere with the 6V if possible. I only drive it in fair weather during daylight anyway.

The engine starts fine and it drives ok, maybe idles a touch low sounds like it wants to stall (which might be relevant)

I'm noticing the the indicators and horn only seem to work properly when the engine is revved up.

I monitored this on my multi meter connected to the battery.. before starting the battery shows 6.1V.. on idle its no different and the red generator light on the dash is on until I start revving it up to which the voltage rises to 6.4V and the Horn/Indicators start to work.

I'm not using the Bug that often so I can understand the battery might not be in top shape when I first start it. Sadly my lock up doesn't have power so I can't leave it on a trickle charger.. although I might start taking out in future and topping it up at home.

So in your guys experience what can I do to improve this situ.

I'm thinking maybe raise the idle a bit and keeping the battery in better shape

Any other suggestions, does the Dynamo sound like its working ok?

Thanks!

Sun Feb 16, 2014 8:39 am

Having a low idle and a Generator... It will not produce much charging voltage/current.
Its the nature of the beast.
Id bet.. if you had your headlights on... you'd notice the light brighten as you increase engine RPM
Check and adjust your idle rpm FIRST.

Before any parts are suspected or replaced.
These common issues can be from voltage drops as well.
I would suggest, start cleaning terminals..
Start with the battery. (both ends),
Transaxle ground strap
Regulator
Fuse block... indicator supply etc..
Horn circuits etc
Dont forget the grounds..

Sun Feb 16, 2014 9:55 am

You are right the headlights brightness gets brighter with revving up

I'll look into adjusting the idle, bought the battery home so will put that on my 6V trickle charger.

Spent most of today adjusting the play in steering and front bearings.

Sun Feb 16, 2014 10:06 am

check all the grounds as your system should be showing 6.8 - 7.2 at high idle, nothing on.
yours is a little weak, the voltage regulator can be adjusted if need be.

Sun Feb 16, 2014 10:09 am

60ragtop wrote: check all the grounds as your system should be showing 6.8 - 7.2 at high idle, nothing on.
yours is a little weak, the voltage regulator can be adjusted if need be.

It was now where near that high :(

I'll go over the grounds

Whats involved in adjusting the voltage regulator?