My charging system on my 245 is not working properly. I know I need a new wiring harness section replaced and it will get done soon...BUT in the meantime...
***Can I run a heavy gauge wire from the alternator directly to the battery to keep it charged.
I've had everything checked out: Alternator tested OK, Both Batteries OK, All grounds double-wired. The section of wires for the idiot lamps from the firewall to the alternator have a short somewhere. I am getting the IPD repair harness soon. Maybe Santa will bring it?
It's now too cold to do any real work outdoors, 20 degrees not including wind chill and besides, it's snowing again. I need a temp fix until after Christmas when I can take it to my father-in-law's heated garage. I may get lucky and get a decent sunny day above 40 and I can do it at home. Thanks for all of the good advice. At least I know what's wrong. P.S. I found out you can run the car for 5 days per battery charge as long as I dive in the daytime. Headlamps will drain it dead in a day.

Thanks everyone

You can run a wire direct from the alternator to battery, but first try disconnecting the existing idiot light wire from the alternator and rig up a bulb holder for a low wattage 12V bulb (5W or less) and connect it from the big (battery wire) terminal and the idiot light wire terminal on the alternator.
Your alternator should then charge OK.
The reason it is not charging at the moment it is because the alternator is not getting the exitation current to start it working which is supplied by the idiot light circuit.
Don`t forget to remove the bulb when not running or the bulb will drain the battery.
Alternatively wire it to an ignition switch controlled source instead of the big alternator terminal and it will work just like light in the dash except you won`t be able to see it while driving.

Colin.

I agree with you, and might add if he locates a switch to ground with that bulb that he could turn on and off the Alt at will... Mac

Two questions,

Why would you want a separate switch when the ignition switch will do it?

Why would you want to ground the warning light terminal?

Colin.

Well in the temp fixing this could be done.. No you would not want this after the fix has been done. I wired a Case bucket loader that way as the guy did not want the right fix.

I think we are on the same page.... Mac

Yes you can. Adding a heavy gauge wire (6 square mm should be enough) will decrease resistance and improve battery charge, esp. if the current wiring loom is suspect.

Hello,

I can't see why that wouldn't be a problem. Neet idea on daytime battery driving, especially if you have the battery out of a diesel model.

Maybe Santa will bring me that arc welder I've been wanting....

Richard

87 245 DL 371,000 km
82 242 GLT 121,000 km