Classic/Antique Car Repair: 69 Camaro Electrical, 69 camaro, battery cable

Question
Hey again. I finally got my car out and now when i start it and it runs the "Gen" light stays on so whats wrong with the electrical and/or alternator? I checked the wires for shorts and crosses, and the fuses, and fiddled with the wires that are connected to the alternator. When its running and i turn on the lights etc the engine does not slow down like theres no juice left. I have no ideas? Any thoughts? Thanks, James

Answer
Sorry, I've forgotten the details about your car.  Is your car still original as to the alternator etc.?  If it is, and your GEN warning light is coming on, the problem is most likely either bad regulator or a bad alternator, assuming the GEN warning light is wired correctly.   

This is a new problem, right?  Was anything done to the electrical system since it last worked right?

You should check to see if the alternator is actually working OK.  Do this by pulling one battery cable off when the engine is running.  If it keeps running, your alternator is working.  If the engine dies as soon as you pull the battery cable off, the alternator is not charging.

If it isn't, the problem might be either the alternator, the regulator, or something in the wiring.   If you have an auto parts place where they will diagnose charging problems free for you, take it there and get them to put their meters on it - you aren't going to be able to dope this out yourself unless you have the right tools and some experience with charging system.  Don't start changing parts willy-nilly - you'll spend a lot of money and might not fix anything!

Good Luck!

Dick.