I thought I would share this tale to help any others with the same problem.
I have a 1972 Spider and noticed that one of the battery caps was popped. The only reason I know this can happen is if the alternator is putting out too many volts. Sure enough, my volt meter told me that I had about 18 volts and climbing at 2000rpm. I was boiling the battery every time I ran the engine.
I called around (Atlanta, GA) and found a place that repairs auto elec stuff. They suggested that I bring in both the alternator and regulator for testing. They called me back about one hour after I dropped off my stuff and said that my alternator was fine but the regulator was off but could be adjusted. When I asked if they could do that, he politely replied "I have only been doing this for 30 years." Good enough for me.
Long story short, they adjusted the regulator to give me 14.5 volts, put in new bearings for the alternator (said they were dry and going to fail soon) and cleaned up the alternator to make it pretty. (I still need to paint the regulator.)
It was ready the next day.
Total bill: $41.35
Wow.
I know there are many reasons to put in a 95 amp alternator, but I kind of wanted to keep mine original for now. Besides, it turned out very inexpensive. Please support the fine vendors mentioned often in this forum. (I know I do often. ha ha) But there are many other local shops that have a vast wealth of knowledge.
My thanks to Southern Auto Electric on Moreland Ave (Atlanta, GA) for taking good care of me.
Dougieb
