peterskunk

My friend just got a 1968 Olds 442, we made the engine by just adding gas and new battery but No Head lights, No Tail Lights No Charging. We installed a new alternator but still the same issue. it looks like i share circuit is causing this problem but i don't know where i can start diagnosing.

even though the wiring looks untouched, there's some evidence of some work on the ignition switch (not installed hanging under the dash board)

any input will be much appreciated. thanks

Sugar Bear

Start with cleaning, tightening and adding grounds if needed from the battery to the fender, and from the cylinder head to the firewall.

Is there voltage to the lights that don't work?

Good luck!!!

oldcutlass

There is a red wire that runs from the horn relay power stud to the bulkhead connector that supplies power to the cabin. Check the fusible link on that wire. Also clean and check the connections of all the wires connected to the power stud.

BackInTheGame

You may not know that in '68 the voltage regulator is separate from the alternator. The regulator is on the firewall. It may have died. Good luck in troubleshooting! I'm sure you guys will have it sorted out shortly. Then you have to come back and tell us what the trouble was.

BTW, Welcome to Classic Oldsmobile! If you buddy is not too shy, share up some pics of his new ride!

joe_padavano

Let's back up.

First, you can completely remove the alternator and regulator from the car and the lights will still work, so obviously those are not related to the problem with the lights.
Second, how do you know you have no charging? Does the GEN light come on? Does the battery run down? Have you actually used an ammeter to check current output of the alternator while running?
As usual, my first recommendation is to stop randomly replacing parts and perform some troubleshooting first. Get a factory service manual and LOOK at the wiring diagram. See if everything is connected properly. See if mice have chewed through a critical wire. Use a voltmeter or test light to figure out where the voltage stops in each circuit. Test the fusible link.

peterskunk

i just replace the alternator because the Gen light was on, i checked with a volt meter the new alternator and it read 12.5 on idle and 13.0 when add a some rev to the engine, GEN light still On.
Will keep you guys posted thanks

oldcutlass

What is the voltage across the battery when its disconnected from the car?