i have a 87 t-type with a new batt, new good alternator and i cant get the alt to charge the battery.the alternator tests out off the car at 14.5 but it just wont work on the car.
Does the alternator light on the dash come on with the ignition on but before starting the car?
The brown single wire off the side of the alternator leads through that bulb to control the alternator field. With the bulb burned out, it will not work properly. See http://www.gnttype.org/techarea/images/wiring_images/charging_ckt.jpg for some illustration.
If the light in the dash is out, the alternator may not charge. The alternator needs this connection to complete the circuit. Originally the bulb in the dash was supposed to be in a special holder that has a resistor in it so that if the bulb does burn out, it will still charge the battery. But, if this is missing, and you have the regular bulb holder, it won't charge when the bulb is dead.
Brian
yup the dash was loose thanks, now i just have to figure out why the volt light comes on at hi pull situations!!