Outer Limits 4x4 Board

I've got a bosch alternator fitted to my FJ45. The original regulator has been removed. I've been having dramas with the battery going flat. I bought a cheap multimeter today and found after I charged the battery with a charger it has around 12V with the engine off, but when I start it the voltage goes all over the place, anywhere between 2-13v, just real random readings. Also the ignition light is not working. Does this sound like it would be the regulator?

Cheers

It sounds like it could be the regulator, but that's not the only possibility imho. The other possibilities that spring to mind are a loose/slipping belt, or a dodgy bit of wire somewhere.

If the IGN light doesn't come on when you turn the key to IGN (with the engine not running), it does suggest that the light's not hooked up to the alternator.

Sounds like worn out brushes bouncing on the slip rings. Bearings and a new regulator w/ brushes shouldn't set you back more than $40 from an auto sparky. Quick rebuild. Even worn slip rings are generally fine.

The lack of light is a concern though. It only has 3 wires I take it?

Paul

I pulled the brushes out and cleaned them up first thing today before I went and bought the mulitmeter. They look ok still had nearly 10mm I suppose. It's got a good belt on it and it's tight.
Yeah, there is 3 wires in the back. + which has a short wire which goes to what is the regulator I assume screwed to the alt, then a D+(small diam) and a B+ (largest diam wire). The ignition barrel is pretty worn also so maybe that's where my light drama is coming from. The light used to come on.

Regulator is prob black box with brushes in it.
Small cylinder is to stop radio interference (may not have one)

There is some stuff in the Bible on testing that bulb circuit I think. My memory is rusty there.

Paul

Thanks for your help fellas. Think I might head to an auto sparky tomorrow.

Cheers.