Alternator Troubleshooting

[Norman]

Definitely not about alternators!  That seems to be solved, congratulations, Rachel!

H. W., I like what you said about staying on trail with all kinds of electronics, just in case.

Just two weeks ago a park ranger gave me grief when I mentioned going off trail in his park, in the winter, in 6 inches of snow.  No issue of getting lost!  "Going off trail damages the ecology!  It diminishes the experience of the on trail hikers".

I have always preferred to just strike out in a general direction, and then follow the most interesting or easiest path.  Where there is a specific destination in mind, and a marked trail there, yes, the trail is the best way, and usually the fastest or easiest.

In big woods, a map is essential, and in some weather, a compass too.  Generally, when overcast skies are not expected, my sense of South is reliable, as is also my sense of distance.  I now often carry a GPS to tell just how far I have traveled, in order to turn back to avoid exceeding my endurance.  At 82, fatigue escalates rapidly.  Turning back when half tired is too late.  My last ramble thru the woods ended that way, I exited onto a road and hitch hiked back to the truck, just a mile away.  Up hill, all the way!

Of course, cutting cross country to the road damaged the ecology, and diminished the pleasure of any hikers who came thru after I did!

Are you still hiking the back country of the Cascades?  My wife and I only wandered a mile or two away from parking places when we were there 10 years ago, and stuck to trails.  We did not have suitable clothing or any map, and no backpack for emergency supplies, so we were more than usual cautious.  We were not there on a hiking vacation, just enjoying side trips from other duties.

Norman

[ralay]

Got the right size brushes and soldered them in.  The rear bearing took just as much pounding to drive in as it took to get out.  Put it on, turned the key and the warning light came on.  Pressed start and it shot up to its regulated voltage.  As I mentioned, I also bought a new chinesium alternator for a spare.  It is exactly the same except rated for 50A.  So I should be more likely to be able to make a working alternator in the field even if both go south.  That said, we'll have to wait for some cloudy weather to really test it as the solar panels are keeping the batteries full without any help from the engine.

[CharlieJ]

Hey gal- where are ya'll these days? That areas over there is some of my favorite waters