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2000 DeVille driving with no alternator
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comnavguy
User
May 15, 2012, 12:58 PM
Post #1 of 7
(2349 views)
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2000 DeVille driving with no alternator
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Here's a peculiar question:
If you removed the fuse from the daylight running lights and turned OFF everything you could, how far could you drive this car on a brand-new battery with a dead alternator ?
I was told the trip is about 35 miles and all freeway. It's a college kid with no money who can get the labor free if he can get the car from school to home, but has no towing package on his insurance.
I've heard of people going long distances with a dead alternator if EVERYTHING electrical is turned off.
What do you say?
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
May 15, 2012, 1:19 PM
Post #2 of 7
(2329 views)
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Re: 2000 DeVille driving with no alternator
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Yes, you would have to eliminate ALL electrical loads, especially lights, A/C compressor, blower and even radio. And don't shut it off and restart it.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
May 15, 2012, 1:45 PM
Post #3 of 7
(2311 views)
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Re: 2000 DeVille driving with no alternator
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It's a guess. Have this person have a cell phone for sure but everyone does if the car doesn't make it and is seen with hood open is a sign of broken down where I am and bet most places.
This happened to me with a known very good battery and about 35 miles to go. Not my vehicle but one I was in with owner. Stupidly I didn't pull the fuse for DRLs and made a run for it. Was losing power near the end as fuel pumps are using electricity as well as ignition items but not as much as the fuel pump.
Side suggestion: Get or advise on a car club like AAA. AAA plus is under $100 bucks for up to 100 mile tows! Discounts for other things so it's really free. If no AAA then pick another with similar benefits. I have it and there are tons of surprises that could happen and if I needed an 80 mile tow it would be mega hundreds or have heard of such. You may need to tow part of it but unless in some club it's expensive.
Make sure that battery is fully charged and roll the dice Bet it makes it. Another trick if this person is good is use the parking brake holding it released but think most Caddys won't stay on if in drive early to slow down and foot off brake if stops are required so you aren't even using brake lights. Certainly don't let an accident happen over it depending on the drive and conditions that's only for those that have a good clue of what they are doing.
Good luck,
Tom
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Discretesignals
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
May 15, 2012, 2:23 PM
Post #4 of 7
(2298 views)
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Re: 2000 DeVille driving with no alternator
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The battery should be under the rear seat. If you have a jumper pack, you can hook it to the battery to give you some extra capacity.
Since we volunteer our time and knowledge, we ask for you to please follow up when a problem is resolved.
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
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May 15, 2012, 2:48 PM
Post #5 of 7
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Re: 2000 DeVille driving with no alternator
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Those should be standard fare for a lot of folks. Speaking of which - I need a new one but the real powerful one is big bucks and with only 10,000 other things I need that has to wait
Tom
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comnavguy
User
May 16, 2012, 3:00 AM
Post #6 of 7
(2255 views)
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Re: 2000 DeVille driving with no alternator
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Thanks for all the info. I didn't think of a boost pack or a parallel 12 volt battery for more capacity/miles. I, too, thought this trip could be done on a fresh fully charged battery.
I'll report if it's done whether it's successful or not.
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
May 16, 2012, 9:21 AM
Post #7 of 7
(2240 views)
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Re: 2000 DeVille driving with no alternator
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Yes - that would add the time of amp hours of the boost pack. If not fully charged up now stop at closest shop and get it charged for the run. Still bet it makes it,
T
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