Series 3 - No charging light

Hi all, so I ‘think’ I know my issue but would like to check with you knowledgable peps on here.
So the other day tried to start but Bty was flat. So changed to a good spare, flat after a few days.
Starting checking the Alt and it’s giving out 8v with minimal Amps so I’m thinking Alt. But …..after checking my ignition/charge light it wasn’t working (It was when I last looked) bulb works but when I put it back into the holder and gauge it doesn’t earth. If I put an earth wire on it from the inspection socket to the bulb it lights up. So I’m thinking bad earth on the dash and get this fixed first before condemning the Alt. I’ve heard that this light must work for the charging circuit?

happy for your thoughts

Rich

the bulb earths thru the alt and thats what energises it, unless i'm mistaken!

Ahhh - so Alt could be knacked?

Rich

On mine when red light went out I removed alternator unsoldered all the diodes and tested on the meter , all ok , then I noticed the charge light to alternator wire had an inline spade connection had come undone , connected that and worked fine
http://www.retroanaconda.com/landrover/2010/03/series-iii-workshop-manual/

There is a fault finder for the alternator in here along with the wiring diagrams , but check the continuity for end to end of that important wire before condemning alternator

Thanks Steve will do.

I’ll crack on testing continuity before condemning the Alt.

Rich

Gun7354 said:

Thanks Steve will do.

I’ll crack on testing continuity before condemning the Alt.

Rich

Click to expand...

All the earths and connectors in the charge circuit have to be good for the Alternator to charge at full voltage.
The alternator earths through it's case onto the engine, so if the earth wire from the engine to the chassis, or the chassis to the battery negative, is no good, that takes the alternator out, or reduces the charging voltage.

Thanks Turboman - I’m going to check all earths and wiring before getting involved with a new Alt - not touched any of it for over 4 years.

Rich

Gun7354 said:

Thanks Turboman - I’m going to check all earths and wiring before getting involved with a new Alt - not touched any of it for over 4 years.

Rich

Click to expand...

Another thing. If you have a battery isolator in the system, undo the leads, and put them onto one terminal before you start.

They can, and do, fail.

Update - t’was the alternator. Charge warning light now back also. Will keep the old one and replace the rectifier etc (£16 on flea bay).

need to remember to make sure I have a red charge light on before starting the engine .

thanks all