Ignition light permanently on !

The alternator has packed up , I would think .Unplug the big plug on the back ( if it's an ACR series ) and see if the light goes out . Unless you want to rebuild it an exchange unit is the answer
 
Thanks Dave.

I have had a look and there is a large connector and a separate thin brown wire with a spade connector, connected to it. Tried reseating the connections but the light stays on although it goes off when it left unplugged. Do you know if an alternator from a 1976 car will work on a 1973?

Regards

Thomas.
 
Hello Tom,

If your alternator is an 18ACR, which by the description it it, then the likely cause of the ignition light being permanently on is either the voltage regulator or the carbon brushes. Both can be replaced in a matter of minutes and only for a few quid, or if you prefer take it to an auto electrician that you trust but be prepared to pay considerably more.

There were only two types of alternator fitted to the 3500 and 3500S, the 11AC and the 18ACR. The former was fitted to early cars, the latter to all cars with engines numbered 451, 455, 481 and 485 from suffix C onwards.

Ron.
 
Hi Ron,

Thanks for your advice which is very helpful. I have a 1976 model thats is being stripped for spares hence the question of whether the alternator from that vehicle will fit to my 1973 3500s. By the sounds of it they are both the same.

Will give it a try this weekend!


Cheers


Thomas.
 
Your 1972 car should have an 11AC which won't have a multiplug on the back fitting through a plastic cover, (just seperate wires attached to the rear of the unit), which is what the 18ACR on the 1976 car should have. They aren't a straight swap, but can be interchanged if you modify the wiring, and fit the mounting bracket that matches the alternator.
 
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