Hi all.

Thanks for all the very helpful places to look and things to check before
replacing the alternator.

It ends up that the alternator wasn't putting out anything and did need
replacement.  I was kinda rushed (holiday travel), so I opted to put
another alternator in.  It was used and only cost me $40.  Between the
price and the guarantee that if this one fizzes out in the next few weeks
they'll replace if for free, I believe this was the best choice.

I believe it all comes down to a theorem:  The more the van breaks down,
the more I learn about working on the van.  So, the next time the van
breaks down, I'll know whether to frown a little or start screaming.  ;-)

Have a safe and merry Christmas,

-Patrick
 '85 Westy GL "Vicki"

J. Patrick Hatcher
Technical Writer/Systems Trainer
Recognition Research, Inc. (RRI)
1750 Kraft Drive, Suite 2000
Blacksburg, VA 24060
540.961.6500
540.961.3568/fax
http://www.rrinc.com
phatcher@rrinc.com