Okay, I have been getting the ole dim of the head lights at stop lights and the ole slow turn signal at the same time. The alternator was the original one since the car only had 78k on it, but who knows. Anyway replaced that and the regulator and STILL I am getting the dim effect. So Im thinking it must be the pigtail assembly connectors/wiring etc. Thoughts other than that and or what to do about it. Does anyone make this pigtail anymore? Or have one for sale? Thanks all!
Yea there is a repop pigtail for $50. You would be better served though to spend that 50 dollars pulling an alternator from a 92 or 93 taurus in a junkyard, chop off its pigtail with as much wiring left as you think you need, and splice it into your car. There are tech write-ups all over for it. Also changing out your headlight switch will do wonders for you.
Do you have Halogen headlights? They draw more current. This is a very worthwhile improvement. http://mmb.maverick.to/showthread.php?t=70188&highlight=headlight+relay It will extend the life of your (new) headlight switch. You'll be surprised at how small the old wires are.
I'm with Jsarnold on the headlight relay. I had repeat switch failures and broke down and installed the relays and WOW, what a difference! Check your charging system output voltage before spending a whole lot of money though, just to make sure it's up to snuff. You should have a minimum 13.5v at the battery, 14.1v would be optimum. Those early alternators barely keep pace with the electrical loads, much less voltage drop through all of the 40 year old terminals, switches and wiring. Upping the amperage will help (required if you use an electric fan and/or air conditioning) and the late model upgrades are very helpful in alleviating some of these issues.
i also agree on doing the head light relay here is the thread i did on mine http://mmb.maverick.to/showthread.php?t=76107&highlight=head+light+relay+upgrade it has some great before and after pics
I saw a kit on ebay for doing the headlight relay install, seemed like it was close to the price of the parts and would simplify it quite a bit. But, now I can't seem to find it... I'll try and take a look when I get home from work. What made it appealing to me was that it plugged into the existing headlight sockets so that you didn't have to chop up existing wiring to install it. Also had fuses and connectors for the battery side hookups.
The headlight switch has been replace recently etc too. I failed to mention the dash lights also dim at idle or cruise speed when the RPMs are down. Seems like a lot of pain to go through to fix the issue. Back in the day I realize the bulbs were pulling less on the system but I don't recall having this much of an issue with dimming. The issue always seemed to have been the alt. Anyway, I guess I will have to look into that upgrade; though I don't drive it that often at night. Its just when I do, I wish it were a bit brighter and of course worry about just how bright my tail and brake lights are when being followed. Thanks everyone. If anyone has any other ideas please feel free to add to the list.
As I mentioned earlier, you'll be surprised at how thin the wires are for the lights. And, as the wiring ages, damage and corrosion reduces efficiency. But, if everything is dimming on idle, you may need an alternator upgrade too. 3G alternators can be had pretty cheap at the JY.
