"Ralph D." > wrote in message
...
> In-law has a 69 Impala w/327. He has two problems that he thinks are
> unrelated, but can't explain either. I think they are related... but can't
> explain it nonetheless.
>
> Issue 1:
>
> This thing started blowing condensers at odd times (meaning no pattern).
> Might take a day... might take a week... but sooner or later it will blow
> the condenser. These are new, not used and the car runs and performs
> rather
> well otherwise. They just up and quit.
>
>
>
> Issue 2:
>
>
> 5 minutes after parking, the alternator light comes on. The alternator
> light
> does not come on while operating nor upon turning off the ignition... only
> about 5 minutes later. It does come on when the key is turned to on before
> cranking, so it appears to function correctly. The Kicker... every now and
> again this thing drains it's battery, but when testing has no spark when
> striking a cable to terminal suggesting no grounded short.
>
>
>
>
> Here's what I think... but what the hell do I know:
>
>
>
> I think that when the engine is shut down with the points closed it is
> letting the battery back-feed through the condenser somehow. I have
> absolutely nothing to support that theory except for a guess, and have not
> a
> clue as to how I would suggest he go about pursuing that theory. And
> forget
> anyone over there taking anything to a garage as they'd feel like someone
> castrated the family jewels at the mere suggestion that among them they
> can't fix every problem with every auto.
>
> Anyhow... They are going to drop a HEI distributor in it and deal with the
> light separately, but I'm guessing they'll end up popping modules next. He
> says he has another alternator around, but I'm wondering if there isn't
> something external to it involved.
>
>
>
> Suggestions?
>
>

I have none...but do have fond memories of the 1968 Chevy Impala Custom
Coupe I learned to drive on! Good luck with your question. I x-posed over
to the GM NG to broaden the audience.