"Volts" idiot light

[EastEnder]

The "Volts" idiot light just came on my '85 v6 n/a....what does this mean? Is it trying to throw a code? The book only states to go to a dealer and have them check it out. Any thoughts?

 

[dan2286]

Most likely something with the battery or alternator. Does your car ever have any problems with the battery going dead?

 

[joeairforce]

Take the car to Auto Zone and let them hook up there charging system tester. That'll tell ya somethin. It's free so ya can't beat that. 8)

 

[Doober]

If the light is on, it's likely the alternator isn't working. Put a voltmeter on it with the car running, if it reads 12v, take the alternator out & have it checked, after checking all electrical connections (rear post and 2-prong plug).

 

[85 Cutlass Brougham]

Either there is an issue with the alternator or the small gauge wire on the two wire plug is broken. (assuming this is a 12SI or 10SI alternator)

 

[EastEnder]

So far I havent had any charging problems. The battery died once when I left the lights on, which is to be expected. I did notice that when I go through a decent size puddle and when its raining out, if I go through at a quicker rate of speed, the same light with fade in and out...sorta come on, then off gradually.

What is the rear post?

What does the two prong plug look like? Is it at the back of the alternator, or is it one of the leads for the batt terminals?

Thanks for all the replies.

 

[outsider_27]

The rear post is on the back of the alternator where the wire attatches to the post with a nut. The 2 prong connector is on the top of the alternator at the rear.

 

[EastEnder]

I figured out the problem. I should have started looking under the hood first, before I started asking questions.....anyhow, i looked, and low and behold, the Alternator belt broke....I only found this out after the car died...yea, i feel pretty dumb for not checking the obivious. Thanks for the help.