Evening,
Picked up a 1999V MK2 today, did about 60 miles, parked it up, and the battery light came on when i restarted it. It was accompanied by a whine which crept up with the revs. The heaters in the car also went higher with the revs too.
Tested the battery voltage
Engine off: 13.8v
Engine on: 18v!!!
Ive been advised its likely to be the resonator in the alternator - does this sound right? Also what am i looking at for a new alternator? I have a halfords trade card i hope i can use.
Any help greatly appreciated.
Cheers
G’day mate, welcome to the Forum
For resonator, read REGULATOR. Could be problem, but get it checked out by an auto electrician. New one from MX5 parts is £285…gulp…MX5 parts alternator
Secondhand from Autolink is £75 +vat and P&P.
In the past I have repaired alternators for the cost of the parts, again any auto electrician worth his salt could do this too.
It would be useful to pop your location under your avatar so we can maybe offer local help or advice[;)]
Thanks for the reply.
Im in the UK for reference.
I have managed to source a second hand one that is guarenteed for 3 months for just £50.
Problem is i just went to start the car to put her on the driveway, and the battery was 100% flat.
Could this problem be related to the alternator, or do you think i have two seperate issues?
Cheers
Josh
For info, the alternator on the MK2 is controlled by the engine ECU, it is possible to see 18volts charging voltage especially if the battery is really flat.
Not as big Australia, but still quite big. [^o)]. A local member would be able to help if he knew where you are.
Before doing anything with the battery, check whether it is an original MX5 type - they need a particular charging regime. Lots of info on this and other sites.