No charge for the first 10 to 20 sec

frebor72 · Post by **frebor72** » 18 Dec 2020, 05:32

Strange error. Some days when I start the car it doesn´t charge. Instrument panel are a bit dim and voltage around 11.3 V. After 10 to 20 seconds the voltage goes back to normal. Like 14.4 V. No warning lights or anything.

It it somerthing in the car that regulates charging or only the voltage regulator in the alternator?

Post by **oragex** » 18 Dec 2020, 06:49

How old is the regulator ?

frebor72 · Post by **frebor72** » 18 Dec 2020, 07:04

It´s been replaced this year. I´ve found out though that there is three types of possible alternators. 120A, 140A and 160A. My is a 140A but I´m not sure if the regulator was made for that or not. Can a bad alternator cause this problem?

Post by **oragex** » 18 Dec 2020, 13:48

Your 2002 has the same regulator as my 2003 and I had the bad idea to put a 'smart' regulator for 2005-up and while it was only charging to 13.5v all time (and ruined my battery), it was charging always the same, including at start up. May try see if you have a chinese brand, with a flash light and a camera to take a pic and focus in, the number should be visible.

frebor72 · Post by **frebor72** » 18 Dec 2020, 19:37

I think i’m gonna replace the voltage regulator just in case

Post by **oragex** » 19 Dec 2020, 01:08

I'll try to check mine, see if it's charging during a cold start. I think first 20-30 seconds is the high idle

Post by **abscate** » 19 Dec 2020, 14:02

This thread title gave me a tremendous hope for a Few moments but MVS HR censored my thoughts

frebor72 · Post by **frebor72** » 19 Dec 2020, 15:31

I’m from Sweden. Probably explains it...

But regarding the car. I’ve now replaced the voltage regulator. The alternator is hard to get out of the car completely but It was possible to make the replacement without taking it out. Just by removing all the bolts

Post by **oragex** » 20 Dec 2020, 07:50

Good update. Doesn't it charge now right from the start up ?

frebor72 · Post by **frebor72** » 20 Dec 2020, 10:01

It’s working now. Around 14,4 V right from the start up