Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[1stpop]

have just rebuilt and got the engine running on my pop, but the battery has been completely drained (one day after re-charging)? can anyone suggest a reason for this? electrics aren't my strong point - Is the battery being shorted somewhere and thats causing the drain? Also when I connected the battery the horn wouldn't stop? Is this a clue?

sorry for all the questions but all your help has been really appreciated so far.....

[Rick]

probably something in the charging system needs a look at:

- battery condition? is it an old unit, perhaps left uncharged for a long period?
- fan belt tight?
- battery topped up?
- possible sticking bushes in the dynamo
- dynamo connections ok, tight etc?
- points in the regulator need a gentle clean?

those are my first thoughts

R
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[1stpop]

just a PS - should I be able to start it with the handle even if the battery is dead?

[Rick]

as long as you get a spark over the points, then in theory yes (assuming fuel is coming through)
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[Rick]

PS if you are trying the handle, always hold the handle so as your thumb is not going under it, that way if it kicks back, you don't risk breaking your thumb!!

R
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[Uncle Joe]

You can check if its charging or not by connecting a voltmeter over the battery, first with the engine stopped, then with it running, and compare the values. If it is charging, then the battery is like as not shot. If its not charging, then its just a matter of elimination, which is a matter of one wire, depending on your regulator. Easy!


UJ

[1stpop]

thanks for the advice got myself a cheap volt tester and got the car running - and the dynamo is doing its job - the battery is shot tho -

But I did pick up a very small 6V battery thats used for kids quad bikes and used that to help me start the car - think it is going to be a very handy addition - easy to carry in case of problems and its rechargable!

Just gotta stop the horn now - lol

[Uncle Joe]

Your answer is one of the reasons that I recommended a modern battery instead of a hard rubber battery in the other post. You've had enough trouble now, just think how it would have been if you had this trouble on a cold, dark windswept rainy moor, miles from anywhere...

UJ

[1stpop]

I would love to use a modern battery but am having real trouble trying to find a 6volt one with enough umph to turn the starter motor - have thought about converting to 12 volts but am a little unsure about that idea - car runs well and think it may be a big job - If anyone can knows different I'm open to suggestions

[PAUL BEAUMONT]

I know your problem. I have the same problem with my Jowett. Half of an NGB set is no use, but I do not have space for a big 6v for instance off a Yank!
I did see some high AH 6v Batteries on Ebay a bit back, but they were in Germany!
Keep me posted!
Right now I swing it, but I have a large ex Chevy pick up battery for playing with at home!

[Uncle Joe]

A 12v conversion shouldnt be that hard to do really....I dont know why so many people shy away from it. The worst part is parts research...

UJ

[1stpop]

am gonna go for the 12 volt conversion so would appreciate any help anyone can give me - ideas about parts and stuff - were to start - what to change - or even if anyone knows of a simple set of instructions I can get hold of?

Also my 6V battery is now charging and holding the charge - how odd is that?

[Rick]

bits to change:

-all bulbs (inc in dash, if there are any, perhaps in the indicator switch?)
-regulator
-dynamo
-battery!
-coil
-disconnect the trafficators as the originals won't like 12v, and fit replacement flashers (need to buy a flasher relay, wiring, lamps, switch)

also:

-fiddle the fuel gauge reading (there's a post about doing that somewhere) as it'll over-read if you do nothing

the starter can cope for short bursts on 12v

Rick
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[Uncle Joe]

I can probably give you some guidelines, but I need to know more about your electrical system as it is now.

You will probably need: Battery, Dynamo, Starter Solenoid , Regulator, wiper motor (if its electrical, but you can get round this one) Bulbs.

What gauges do you have?

UJ

[Uncle Joe]

Yep, forgot the coil, and the condensor as well...

Wiith the gauges, as well as a heater motor, use a converter.

No wiring needs to be changed, unless its in bad condition, or new is needed...

Dont forget to reverse polarity as well.

UJ