So after a few tests I decided to just replace the alternator. Both the alternator + the battery were holding at the same voltage + I had the alternator tested again at AutoZone. The diodes passed fine but the regulator did not pass. It was holding steady at 12.3V.

After successfully getting a new ...

Thanks for this. I will test tomorrow. I'm also going to have the alternator tested one last time as it's been about 3 weeks since the last test just to be sure. We replaced voltage regulator about 3 weeks ago.

As for the warning light, the battery warning light always pops on at start up + then ...

regent wrote:Also, you want to check the difference in voltage between +GEN and +BAT. If it is more than 0.3volt, then you should be looking at a poor connection. Even a good alt may not be able to charge the battery well with a drop like that.

It was .22

No idea.

Is there a handy version of the alternator diagram anywhere? The voltage on the alternator is consistent with the battery and it doesn't seem to jump when revving the engine. Trying to figure out another way to test the alternator.

Currently voltage on the battery and the alternator read 12.3 ...

After charging the battery fully it reads 13.5v. After driving it to work it drained to 12.6 pointing to something with the alternator or belt tension I guess. Since it was replaced fairly recently I'm going to double check the tension + hopefully that is it.

Yea doesn't seem to be coming from the tailgate. I'll probably pick up that harness regardless. Stranger still, the speedometer needle only jumps when the car rolls without me pushing the gas. Gonna try a full recharge of the battery.

Bill

I did check it. Did notice though that the wires running to the trunk hatch are frayed. Though I don't open it much I wonder if it's enough to cause a short.

Hello all

First, thanks for all the help everywhere. Long story here so here's the skinny.

Car: 1990 240 DL Wagon
Issues: Sudden battery drain

Ditched my 94' 850 after some head gasket issues + picked up a 1990 DL for crazy cheap. But I've had electrical gremlins ever since. First issue: quick ...

well i've had a cold weather issue. i guess anyways. just got back from a 4 day vacation and my 94' 850 Wagon refuses to start. The clock on the interior dash is not even on (it usually displays at all times).

The battery is less than a year old (bought in May of 08') so I'm guessing its a larger ...

that's exactly what it is.

thanks MIJ!

-b