problem with old Holden Apollo (1992)

[sunnymouse]

Hey, I found this board while looking for a Holden board, because we (a young family) have a problem and thought maybe somebody can help.

Ok, we have an old Holden Apollo (1992, automatic) and since some days the battery light in the cockpit is lightning while driving sometimes, and sometimes not - the battery is also not charged very well it seems, as we needed a jumpstart today Now the battery is on charger, but I guess there is a problem in the car, can it be a damaged dynamo/generator? I'm just confused, because sometimes the battery light is on and sometimes not, can the generator work sometimes and sometimes not?

And sorry about my english, it's my second language only, hope I made it understandable anyway.

Please if somebody could help us with a hint to avoid the high cost of a car repairer (my husband could change the generator by himself maybe, if it's the generator... he is just not as good with computers )

Thanks in advance for your help, we appreciate everything that helps maybe (where do we get a cheap generator if it's the damaged part btw? we are at the sunshine coast)

Sunny

[jimmys57]

Hiya Sunnymouse.....sounds like the alternater is playing up,that can cause the problems you decribe.If you arent very good with cars then you really need to see an auto electrician, they can supply and fit an exchange alternator,or at least let you know whats wrong with it. Probably cost you a couple of hundred bucks however........Maybe someone in here knows of a good auto electrician up your way...Cheers Jimmy

[mcl1959]

I would agree - alternator is the problem.  You could try one from a wreckers as most reputable wreckers will offer a guarantee on parts and this will be cheaper than an auto electrician.

Ken

[fe hotrod]

 ;)hey sunny the problem sounds like a alternator as said by the other members,which 7/10 its only the brushes inside that are worn!!its not a hard job to replace these and they only cost about $5 to buy them at a auto elec,but you might need a soldering iron on some models to fit them properly, hope this helps some!!cheers jamie