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Q & A: Erratic Electrical

Tuesday July 03rd, 2007
Q & A, MGA, MGB, MGC, MG T-Type, Midget
Mr. Twist,
1975 MGB
I am having troubles with my turn signals, flashers, and alternator indicator light.
Recently the alternator light did not totally go out after starting my car. It would glow and then dim as the RPMs increased, then glow brighter as the RPMs lowered. Is this a bad alternator or a dying battery? (FYI The battery is very close to its life expectancy!) Nothing like this has every happened in the 23 years I've owned the car. Also, the alternator is relatively new with only eight years and 8000 miles on it. It is a Bosch from Moss.
Then last night the turn signals would not blink - just steady on.
Next, the passenger's running lights and turn signals would not come on at all, then they would, then they wouldn't...
With the engine running and all lights off, the headlights would flash on and off like emergency lights...
Then the emergency lights would only work on driver's side...
Or not at all...
Or sometime they worked perfectly...
All fuses appear good.
Flasher units are "clicking" so I assume they are working.
Where should I begin my investigation?
Thanks,
John
John!

I have some things here for you to try. Let me know what has helped.

Clean the battery posts and cables to ensure a good connection. Pull the plug from the alternator (probably a Lucas alternator in a Bosch... read more