Chevy warning lights

[6.2L Airforce Van]

Ok, this is a total novice question, but what does the "volt" light coming on indicate? Is it ok to drive for now? Everything seems to be running just fine, not sure whats going on. Thanks

[cgoodwin]

I assume it is a "Voltage" warning, meaning that your alternator is not charging sufficiently. Being a diesel once it is started it no longer needs electricity except for things like brake lights headlights and wipers. You likely have a bad alternator, regulator or a bad connection. Will not hurt the vehicle to drive but you will only get a few starts and amybe an hour or two of headlights before the battery is dead.

chris

[jgnat1488]

Yep, acdelco has probably gone south on ya. At least alts. for a 6.2 are kinda cheap!

[Mandilon]

my battery went south one time I tried starting the Volvo diesel.

After recharging it I started it up and checked the voltage.

--No higher then the charger had accomplished.

The 'idiot' light would function with the key in the on position but as soon as I would start the car the idiot light would go out.

I'm going to install a voltmeter and TRASH that stupid Volvo idiot light!

I've been recharging the battery for the last month as I havent had time to 'pull' the alternator for a look-see.

I've repaired many-a/n alternator/generator by replacing the brushes (pig-tail breaks on one and over 50% worn) or re-soldering a broken connection.

This veggie conversion thing doesn't leave me time for other essentials!

The beast sprung a power stearing leak and since I didn't have any ATF I dumped in about FOUR ounces of SVO, yikes!

If it freezes up I have a spare one:-)

It's NOT that I'm cheap, It's just that 'I'd like to know.....!'

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http://www.b100usa.com/Alternative_Fuel_Coalition/

[Greenlion]

Mandilon, I recall an article in VW and Porsche magazine(= 10 years ago) about the internal voltage regulators on early 80s Bosch alternators. I had the same problem on my 82 5000S Diesel, thought I had bad battery. There was an external regulator kit as a service part. may still be out there. That was the #2 reason I traded my Audi in on a 944 in 85. Wish I had it back!