Alternator/Battery Problem(s)

[Cobrajet]

I would definitely have the alternator checked by a reputable electrical mechanic. I've replaced the battery in my VX twice since new, and the only symptoms I experienced were slow/non starts. However, I chased an electrical problem in my '82 Mustang for over a year. Two new batteries, and the voltmeter check of the alternator showed over 14 volts. When driving at night the lights would dim when applying the brakes, the radio would cut off, and the turn signals were arratic. I finally took it to an auto electric specialist to have an upgraded alternator installed. Turns out there was nothing wrong with anything EXCEPT the pulley on the Autozone alternator was too big, resulting in slow speed at idle, and not enough juice to charge the system. New belt, new pulley, and all is well.

[tom4bren]

"the pulley on the Autozone alternator was too big"

I've heard of this before too. Are the maintenance records available for your VX to see if the altenator was ever replaced?

[etlsport]

yea i replaced my alternator with a high output one.. and do have my battery light on all the time.. i did manage to fix it by bypassing a relay in the engine fuse box... wouldnt recommend it as a permanent fix though.. its just making due for the time being

sounds to me like your alternator is dead though, not too hard to replace yourself if you get a new one (or used) just make sure you have a helper.. while you are in there it doesnt hurt to run a large gauge wire from the alternator post to the positive terminal on the battery.. that solved my dimming issues (high output alternator only puts out 80amps at idle.. 150 when rpms are over 850)