1978 Z Electrical Problems

[Datsun-Fever]

I think my voltage regulator just went, because i can start the car fine, but it lacks power and sometimes backfires, but when i connect jumper cables from another car, it runs perfect, i wanted to know if the voltage regulator is internal on the 78, because i had my battery and alternator tested, and they are both fine....any thoughts?

[mdbrandy]

I think my voltage regulator just went, because i can start the car fine, but it lacks power and sometimes backfires, but when i connect jumper cables from another car, it runs perfect, i wanted to know if the voltage regulator is internal on the 78, because i had my battery and alternator tested, and they are both fine....any thoughts?

The VR is definately internal on a '78. Low voltage will certainly mess with the FI and cause things to act wierd. But if you had the alternator tested, didn't they test the voltage too?

[Datsun-Fever]

Yea, the voltage was within specification...im going to check the wiring from the alternator to the battery, its just hard to get at.

[Datsun-Fever]

Well, i think i figured it out, the alternator charges fine over 2000-2500 Rpm's, but under that it wont produce a charge, so it needs a rebuild or a replacement. Any last thoughts before i spend $100 for one?