High Amps on Gage While Driving? (9 Viewers)

[4ZKRVS]

Just getting my 1978 FJ40 back on the road after a renovation. At idle, Amp gage sits right in the middle but when I rev or drive it pegs the right bar. Upgraded the Distributor to a DUI Street/Strip after seeing it recommended numerous times here on MUD. Twice now the Dyna Module has blown in the short period I have been test driving the rig. Any ideas about why it is blowing. The distributor and voltage regulator are brand new. Any ideas would be appreciated! Thanks!

 

[charliemeyer007]

Well just because you bought new parts doesn't mean they are good. Some voltage regulators are adjustable. Your battery could have issues too. Check it for amp supply with a testor. Most testors can also do the charging system. Make sure the battery/alternator terminals are clean and tight. Check your ground to the engine and frame - clean and tight. The alternator needs to ground too.

 

[45Dougal]

Easiest thing to test is your charging voltage, both at idle and then at speed.
Sounds like maybe either your battery is taking a lot of recharging (dying), or else your alternator is pushing a higher voltage output.
Maybe check that you don't have any parasitic drains when switched off. Use an ammeter preferably, or else just disconnect the battery and see if it sparks when you reconnect it.

 

[brian]

I would limit driving it till you figure out what's up...if it really is throwing that many amps continously while driving, a charging circuit harness meltdown could occur.

 

[Engineer8000]

Checking voltage is good and have the battery tested at the parts store too. A shorted plate in the battery can cause excess charging as the alternator/regulator are trying to get the voltage up.