So i went to work this morning and noticed that upon start up, the charge/volt/whatever it is called meter didn't start moving, Once i set off it started charging (albeit slowly). On driving home, it didn't charge at all, the car started fine, but the wipers pretty much crawl across the windscreen.
So, my questions are:
i)What is likely to be the culprit
ii)Is there any way of finding out what is responsible, therefor narrowing down the part i need to replace/fix
iii)when Is the car not going to start? I need it tomorrow and friday to drive about 5 miles to work, and since it is dark and i don't have a spare voltage regulator (which i assume is the problem here?) I can't really do anything about it in the meantime. Or can i?

Thanks in advance!

Wires fallen off voltage regulator, wires fallen off alternator, alternator belt broken, summat like that maybe?

Add 'worn out alternator brushes' to Russell's list and get an order in to Mr. Morris asap.

The alternator has to work harder in winter, when there's more driving in darkness and that seems to wear the brushes at a faster rate.

ken

Right, Thanks for the input Ken and Russ. I checked all of the connections and gave them a clean, upon some tests, it does charge Veeerrrrryyyyyyy slowly with the headlights off, which is why i saw it charging this morning. With the lights on for the trip home and the quick spin around the block it did not charge, when i turned the lights off and used a torch to look at the meter (while parked) it started charging slowly again. Does this support your Worn out alternator brushes theory Ken?

Most probably, as typical behaviour when they're worn out is for the brushes to make contact with the slip rings at low speeds, but not at higher speeds...

ken

Ok cheers Ken, Is there anything else worth ordering in regards to this problem? I mean, if it turns out to be something else what is the next likely culprit?

p.s. The part you said about the brushes making contact with the slip rings at low speeds, Would that account for the unfamiliar squeaking noise I heard just before changing into second?

If the VR you've got is an electronic type, they either work properly or not at all, so I doubt if it's that which is at fault.
Might be worth ordering an alternator belt, if you haven't got a spare in stock.
( Unless that mucks up the delivery options, so check with Andy. )

Also, be sure to check which brand of alternator it is.

ken

( Edit: just seen your latest post, definitely order a new belt and check the tension of the one that's on the car. )

Ok Ken, I have a spare in the boot. It's not a solid state reg, I did have a spare one of those but i gave it away (lol) As regards to Checking the belt tension, how do I do this? (if this is an obvious answer then please, humour me, but it's not obvious to me!)
Cheers.

Remove the alternator pulley cover, reach in and press the alternator belt outwards with your finger.
There shouldn't be much slack on it, maybe 5mm to 10mm.

ken