rob:

use a meter to measure the voltage across the battery with the engine
running. at idle, especially running accersories and lights, the output
volatge of the alternator may be marginal, explaining the blinking light,
but at higher rpms rise above 13.25 V or so, which would be acceptable.

if the engine continues to crank ok, then the battery is being charged,
and the laternator output is at least acceptable.

there are inexpensive led voltage monitors that plug into the cigarette
lighter -  handy to keep an eye on the voltage while driving without
intalling a permanent gauge.

dan

On Sun, 15 Jan 2006 15:55:46 -0500, robertmstewart
<robertmstewart@MAC.COM> wrote:

>Just wondering if there is a simple way of knowing if the alternator is
>dying or needs replacement?
>
>This is regarding that blinking battery light issue my van is having, I am
>trying to determine if I need to replace the voltage regulator or
>alternator.
>
>Thanks,
>--
>Rob
>NYC/Long Beach, NY
>88 Wolfsburg, Silver