Good Evening,

After brush replacement and then subsequently alternator replacement, it seems that the problem with the charging circuit is now presumed to be w an open warning light circuit.

From some research on the brick board it is likely that a microcrack has developed in the instrument warning light circuit board. To be clear, w key on position 2, only the SRS and seatbelt light are energized. Further, sometimes, but not always, a deft tap on the dash will make magic and the 7 other idiot lights will lite.

From what I understand the alternator will self excite at a high RPM. Is this true regardless of the status of that warning light circuit?

Thanks for your thoughts

Marty

"From what I understand the alternator will self excite at a high RPM. Is this true regardless of the status of that warning light circuit? "

True, regardless of the status of the D+ terminal as long as it is open circuit (like your faulty 9-series flexible printed circuit) or at battery potential and it isn't grounded.

The thing about self-excitation is you can't depend on it. Please don't quote me out of context here. :)

To be more clear, you can't depend on it all the time with all alternators. It occurs because, with age and repetition, the rotor can begin to retain some of the magnetism normally provided by the electricity supplied by the voltage regulator.

What some folks do to "stimulate" this process is momentarily jumper D+ to B+ after starting the car. That should get it charging until next you shut off the motor. Just make sure that deft tap is affecting the circuit board and not a dicey ignition switch.
--
Art Benstein near Baltimore

Why are they called apartments when they are all stuck together?

I'm awfully sorry Art but unfortunately I had to quote you out of context when I responded to the Missus concerning her worries about an impending 60 mile drive.

I appreciate your words of wisdom. I suppose I will have to monkey around and remove the cluster. Dash tapping is starting to be ineffective.

Marty