Red light of doom?

msrmd · Post by **msrmd** » Mon Jul 14, 2008 10:26 am

I was driving to work this morning and noticed that the red light at the bottom of my tachometer was on. I dont have a manual (for the 71) and don't know what this means. Then the water temp began to rise, reaching red line just as I pulled in to park. The fan was not running, even though it hads been when I last drove the car two days ago. I checked the fuse and it was OK. Plenty of coolant also.
Are these independant events or does this combination ring a bell with anyone.
Where should I start?

engineerted · Post by **engineerted** » Mon Jul 14, 2008 11:29 am

It sounds like the alt/water pump belts is loose or came off?

Ted

msrmd · Post by **msrmd** » Mon Jul 14, 2008 11:56 am

Thanks I'll check it and get back to you.

baltobernie · Post by **baltobernie** » Mon Jul 14, 2008 1:32 pm

Or the charging system alone has failed, and there's not enough juice to run the fan?

With the engine running above 1500 rpm and the headlights on, you should measure 13.8 ~ 14.3 volts at the big wire on the alternator.

manoa matt · Post by **manoa matt** » Mon Jul 14, 2008 8:34 pm

Check and clean the ground pod on the drivers side fender. One of the wires on there is the ground for the fan.

msrmd · Post by **msrmd** » Mon Jul 14, 2008 10:41 pm

Working through all your suggestions. Results to follow.

bradartigue · Post by **bradartigue** » Tue Jul 15, 2008 9:24 pm

Pump/Alternator belt. If it was the fan it would only overheat when idling, otherwise air is moving through the radiator.

msrmd wrote:I was driving to work this morning and noticed that the red light at the bottom of my tachometer was on. I dont have a manual (for the 71) and don't know what this means. Then the water temp began to rise, reaching red line just as I pulled in to park. The fan was not running, even though it hads been when I last drove the car two days ago. I checked the fuse and it was OK. Plenty of coolant also.
Are these independant events or does this combination ring a bell with anyone.
Where should I start?

msrmd · Post by **msrmd** » Sat Jul 19, 2008 6:31 pm

Update: its the alternator. I will need a new one. Any recommendations

mbouse · Post by **mbouse** » Sat Jul 19, 2008 7:17 pm

there is a big difference between reconditioned and rebuilt. please bear that in mind when you shop.

reconditioned= only the obviously worn parts are replaced.

rebuilt = torn down and all wear items are (hopefully) properly replaced.

most places give a guaruntee, if it is a reputable place.

of course, there is nothing wrong with hunting down the local guy who makes a living rebuilding starters and alternators. he is usually the one man shop off on the "wrong" side of the tracks, eeking out a living six days a week. usually he is on the downward side of 40 and might be a tad lonely. expect to pay him some homage, and don't be in a hurry when you visit.

pope · Post by **pope** » Sat Jul 19, 2008 7:29 pm

...and what side of the tracks do you live on again Mike? LOL OUCH!

manoa matt · Post by **manoa matt** » Sat Jul 19, 2008 9:07 pm

Did you have the alternator tested? Does your alternator have the internal or external regulator, it could be just the regulator thats at fault.

Local rebuild guy should be able to tell you if its the voltage reg or the alternator itself. The local parts store should have the voltage regulator if its the kind that bolts on to the back housing of the alternator.

mdrburchette · Post by **mdrburchette** » Sun Jul 20, 2008 8:30 am

The 71 should have the external regulator on the left fender. I've had good luck sending my alternators to a local rebuilder.

msrmd · Post by **msrmd** » Sun Jul 20, 2008 10:37 pm

I found and have a replacement for the voltage regulator.
About how much should I pay to have the alternator rebuilt.
To buy a rebuilt alternator looks like it will be about $269 plus about $100 core fee or you send in your alternator for the core fee.

So Cal Mark · Post by **So Cal Mark** » Sun Jul 20, 2008 11:05 pm

that alternator without a regulator should cost in the 65-95 dollar range

baltobernie · Post by **baltobernie** » Mon Jul 21, 2008 7:01 pm

I had a 65A Bosch rebuilt locally for $110, after purchasing a "lifetime guaranteed" AutoZone unit for $90, and having it fail within thirty days. Took them a week to get me a no-charge replacement, which was DOA. In all fairness, they did refund all of my money, but it took several trips to their store, which ain't free these days. Moral: get starters and alternators rebuilt on this side of the tracks.

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