Monday, February 8, 2010

7,000 miles and an intermittent overcharge



In the true spirit of Lucas electrics, the Jag has developed a niggling problem in 7,000+ miles of motoring, and that's an intermittent overcharge situation. I believe that the internal regulator in the alternator 'sticks' occasionally and sends +/- 17 volts through the system for about 20 seconds, after which point it returns to the normal 13.5 range. I can't believe it hasn't fried anything as of yet (knock on walnut veneer), but I'm slated for an alternator replacement very soon as I'm sure I'm tempting fate. I've found several options in the way of replacements, from rebuilt Lucas items to Bosch 90 amp modern units. Fortunately, all are priced fairly reasonably ($100-150) but this'll surely kick the total investment nearer to the dreaded $1,500.00 mark.

My good friend and fellow SIII XJ6 driver, Tony K, has bet me that I'll have major engine trouble before I get to the 10,000 mile mark on the car, however is refusing to place a wager on it. I think perhaps a new headliner will be in order (material and labor on HIS dime) when I hit the fabled 126,223 milestone. Tony, get your Fiskars sharpened dear boy..

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