This sounds like a device called the diode triode has a bad diode.  The
diode triode is a three diode device that clips the negative going portion
of your AC output.  If one of the diodes is out, you have one third less
output.  I replaced one of these in a GM car and it was quite cheap.  Ask
your alternator shop if any of this has merit.  I might be on drugs here but
I don't think so.

Patrick

----- Original Message -----
From: "Richard Golen" <rgolen@UMASSD.EDU>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Tuesday, March 20, 2001 4:54 PM
Subject: Dimly Glowing Alternator Light...Suggestions? Help??

> Awhile back, the alternator light began glowing on my 87 Westy....so I
took
> the alternator out and dropped of at the local alternator/starter repair
> shop. The owner checked out the alternator and said there was nothing
wrong
> that a good cleaning of the ground contacts couldn't fix. So he cleaned
the
> contact point where the regulator unit sits as well as the places where
the
> alternator bolts up to the brackets.
>
> It worked...the light went out.....for about a couple of weeks...but came
> back dimly on.  I went back, and he suggested putting a ground strap from
> the alternator to the engine block. So I did that...but the light would
> still stay on dimly.
>
> The odd thing is that the battery hasn't died, even with headlights,
heater
> fans and wipers on. Its been a couple of months now....the more stuff I
> turn on the brighter the alt light gets...when I flick on the high beams
> the light will brighten to full and then back to a dim light. At all times
> the light does not get as bright as when the ignition key is full on.
>
> I just pulled the alternator out and am going to bring it back to him. Has
> anyone experienced this problem before? If so, what was your solution?
>
> Any hints, suggestions offers of brand new alternators for free will not
be
> refused!
>
>
> Thanks in advance.
>
>
>
> Ric
>