From time to time, when I put on my turn signal, the battery-charge warning light glows dimly (like it's getting about 4 watts) each time the turn signal arrow flashes. Right or left signal, doesn't matter. Doesn't do it every time I drive the car. Did it a week ago, then didn't do it again until tonight. Car is a 1984 245dl.

Any thoughts?

I don't know about the newfangled 200s, but on the 122, the 140s and the 164,
the amp light gets its current from the same fuse that works the turn signals.
If that fuse fails or gets a bad connection (VERY common) it will do exactly
as you say- the current bleeds back from the alternator to the turn signals
because the amp light connection on the alternator is the only source of
current available to the turn signals. The amp light goes on but probably
not enough current to make the signals work right since the amp light is
such a small bulb. Suggest you do a routine czech of your fuses and the
connections to them.

The alternator and regulator and in fact the whole rest of the system can
be in perfect condition and it will still do this if that one fuse is blown
or makes poor contact.

I suspected some kind of crossed wires --- that's a great idea to check out the fuse box.

The reason I do NOT think it's a genunine "poor battery" problem is that running all kinds of power-sucking things like headlights, wipers, and radio all at the same time don't make the battery light glow. Only the turn signal.

I'll look at those fuses. Thanks again.

It is the unlucky fuse #13.

Here's a thread you may find interesting.

http://www.brickboard.com/RWD/index.htm?id=856009

I still have yet to correct this problem. It's something I'll be looking at this weekend.

Good luck!
--
If you listen to the radio in Portland, OR, you may know me as "Portland's Favorite Soul Brother!"

Chris -

Do the stuff recommended by RLC. Also, when was the last time you checked the length of the brushes? When they get to around 3mm, alternator output can be affected.

Could be a cheap fix. Check with fpcgroton.com for a brush®ulator cost. Labor to pull the brushes to check is the same as labor for replacement.

Can be done with the alternator on the car. Easier if the oil filter is off.

Good Luck,

Bob

:>)

I replaced the voltage regulator and brushes about a year ago. That's likely not the problem.

Did replace the alternator belts a few weeks ago. Now that I think about it, that's been about when this all has started. I'll confirm my tension is correct. If that doesn't do it, I'll yank the instrument panel and check the bulbs.

Thanks!

Hello,

May I suggest you check your idle rpm. Also, light bulb contacts are subject to dampness and corrosion. Clean the contacts, the plugs, the grounds. Check the Alternator Belt for 5/16" deflection with thumb in the middle. Check Alternator Output, approximately 13.4 to 14 Volts. Lastly, check Voltage Regulator.