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Rippers Samba Member
Joined: September 08, 2011 Posts: 255 Location: London, England
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Posted: Sun Feb 16, 2014 7:44 am Post subject: 6v Indicator/Horn issue |
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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! |
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VOLKSWAGNUT Fastest VW Belt Changer

Joined: October 14, 2007 Posts: 11155 Location: Flippin' a Belt........ .... Off-n-On ... NC USA
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Posted: Sun Feb 16, 2014 8:39 am Post subject: |
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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.. _________________ aka Ken {o\!/o}
Its your vehicle- stop askin' for approval-do what YOU like for cryin' out loud
Better to roll em' how you want and wear em' out-than lettin' em' rot out
Its about the going not the showing
Rebuilt to drive not decorate
WANTED: Local Eatin' Joints, Triple D for TheSamba contributions here http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=570510
Search "VOLKSWAGNUT" on YouTube since you cant watch a "certain" BELT change video round here
Usually and often edited |
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Rippers Samba Member
Joined: September 08, 2011 Posts: 255 Location: London, England
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Posted: Sun Feb 16, 2014 9:55 am Post subject: |
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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. |
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60ragtop Bonneville Belt Bitch

Joined: March 13, 2006 Posts: 7801 Location: Big Wonderful WYO 82401
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Posted: Sun Feb 16, 2014 10:06 am Post subject: |
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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. _________________ Rick
Certified Mechanic by the State of Michigan in 1977
ASA certified in 1987
Certified Hunter Wheel Alignment Master Technician 1986
tasb wrote: |
I've restored a large number too, but I don't toot my horn quite as loud.
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sb001 wrote: |
maybe he just snapped cause his car sucked  |
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Rippers Samba Member
Joined: September 08, 2011 Posts: 255 Location: London, England
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Posted: Sun Feb 16, 2014 10:09 am Post subject: |
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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? |
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