'93 Bonnieville...Charging Problem

For the last couple months, the above car has been doing funny things. At times the ampmeter registers zero, at times 8, and at times full (approx. 15). Up until now it had been dependable, so I did little to correct the problem. The last time I drove it, it stalled. I had to have it jump started. I then was able to drive it the 5 miles home. When I got home it was showing little activity on the ampmeter. I tapped the alternator fairly hard with a vice grip, and it began charging full again. Do you suppose the brushes are hanging up/worn out?

Thanks, Glenn F.

What voltage do you read with the ignition on but the car not running. That would be the battery voltage.

In order for the voltmeter to act like you describe, either there's an intermittant loose connection somewhere between the battery & wherever the voltmeter connection is made, or the voltmeter itself is flakey. Attach another meter directly to the battery, read the voltage, start the engine. If the voltage goes up when you start the engine, the alternator is probably working. If it doesn't, then either there's a loose or corroded connection somewhere between the alternator and the battery (most likely), or the alternator isn't working plus you've got a flakey connection somewhere.

Keith

Any help for a dummy? Thanks, Glenn F.

Charles

The gm dealers in my area use it. i needed injector lines got one set from dealer saw where they got them and set up my own account. saved about 65% on the rest of the lines. Its a gm parts with full warranty.

Glenn