GolfGTIforum.co.uk

Model specific boards => Golf mk4 => Topic started by: andel on 03 January 2008, 11:56

Title: HELP NEEDED!! melt down..possible alternator problem
Post by: andel on 03 January 2008, 11:56

I recently installed 2 new amps in my golf. They are supplied by a direct power cable from the + terminal of the battery. The whole system works fine and I am experienced in ICE installs.....however after i completed the install and drove the car, i switch off the ignition and the car wouldn't start. on looking at the battery i noticed the power distribution module/fuse holder situated on top of the battery had melted the first terminal/fuse position. I dont know what this supplies as i havnt looked yet but was wondering if anyone else knew? It seems like too much of a coincidence after doing the install that its not related but on the other hand it seems as though something else could be drawing too much power. ive gots some pictures i was going to post if anyone is interested?

Title: Re: HELP NEEDED!! melt down
Post by: andel on 03 January 2008, 19:40

UPDATE: on closer inspection i realised that the terminal that has melted was the power lead coming directly from the alternator. I have disconnected all the amp ects and replaced the melted parts. The alternator is showing 14.8 volts coming from it.
This seems to be high in my opinion. Does anyone know if this should be charging at lower volts ie 13-13.8V? I just think its pushing out too many volts
This pic might make things clearer  (http://www.4freeimagehost.com/resized/33c5f8428658.jpg) (http://www.4freeimagehost.com/show.php?i=33c5f8428658.jpg)

Title: Re: HELP NEEDED!! melt down
Post by: Chris 'N' Jen on 03 January 2008, 21:19

Cant say if 14.8 is too high but iv never seen mine go higher than 14.4.

Title: Re: HELP NEEDED!! melt down
Post by: Turbo_Dazza on 03 January 2008, 21:45

were the connections tight do you know?

Title: Re: HELP NEEDED!! melt down
Post by: andel on 03 January 2008, 22:49

yes they were tight. Does anyone know what voltage the alternator should be pushing out?

Title: Re: HELP NEEDED!! melt down..possible alternator problem
Post by: andel on 04 January 2008, 08:44

Would anyone be willing to put a multimeter across their battery and see what the alternator is pushing out? I really need to know if this is faulty or not

Title: Re: HELP NEEDED!! melt down..possible alternator problem
Post by: AlanD on 04 January 2008, 09:04

I could do that tonight if you want?

Where do you want it measured across?

Title: Re: HELP NEEDED!! melt down..possible alternator problem
Post by: andel on 04 January 2008, 10:25

just across the + & - battery termiinals with the engine running would be a life saver mate!

Title: Re: HELP NEEDED!! melt down..possible alternator problem
Post by: ian00uk on 04 January 2008, 10:30

mine was giving out 14.1-14.4 when i checked it last week.hope this helps

Title: Re: HELP NEEDED!! melt down..possible alternator problem
Post by: andel on 05 January 2008, 11:26

thanks very much, just hope mine is ok to push out 14.8 and i dont get meltdown again

Title: Re: HELP NEEDED!! melt down..possible alternator problem
Post by: AlanD on 07 January 2008, 09:07

DOH !

Completly forgot to do this, sorry mate. Get it sorted tho?