Subject: 1992 VX hatch

A year ago I replaced the distributor and adjusted the timing. Car ran fine for several more months until the battery went dead and I replaced that in Feb. Since then, no problem.

Last weekend I installed the entire A/C system myself (car never had A/C). Everything is functional. No problems or symptoms over the last 4 days since the car has been running with it.

Fast forward to this morning and I pull up to a stoplight after about 15 minutes of driving. Car dies, no electricity at all. I turn the key right away. Nothing. No starter. Nadda. Then I wait about 10 seconds and turn the key, and it's back on. No indication of starter issues.

Is my alternator giving me the middle finger or could it be something even more sinister?

 

maybe ignition problem or ground wire loose or both, just throwing something out there to think about.

 

sounds like a battery terminal is loose

or a ground

 

good idea....I'll check the grounding all around...thanks

 

checked the grounds and ignition. Nothing odd there. Everything is functional and secure.

 

get your battery and alternator tested...

Ive bought brand new parts that went bad in a day. so just cause its brand new doesnt mean that there isnt any issues with it.

 

I think I know someone with a voltage tester. After I check the battery I'll have a look at the alternator. It's had a pretty good track record so far but maybe it's starting to kick the bucket.


Modified by axiomjunglist at 12:13 PM 7/27/2006

 

harbor freight sells voltmeters for like 3.99

 

So after searching around I found this on another Honda site:

If you have a multimeter you can do some test at home (no load test though). Using your dc setting, check the voltage with the engine off, should be around 12.3-12.6 volts +/-. Next start the car, the voltage should now be bewteen 13.8-14.30 +/-. There will be small fluctionation, but should not exceed .25-.50 volts. Anymore and you have a problem.

That sound about right for the correct voltage for the alternator?

**edit**

Screw it, I'm bringing it down to Autozone. Just found out they'll do multimeter testing on your alternator/battery for free in their parking lot.




I'll report back later with findings...


Modified by axiomjunglist at 1:58 PM 7/27/2006