I've got that low idle problem. With heater (necessary in the chilly mornings =P), stereo, and lights on, my idle likes to take a rather significant dip. From what I gathered reading searched posts, it's because I don't have enough voltage and the best fix is a new alternator. As well, I'm guessing the alternator is the cause of my start-up problems: Sometimes when I turn the key, it won't start, but all you'll hear is like... clicking or something, from the engine bay. It takes a buncha retries but eventually it'll start.

Assuming that's right, what's good for a new alternator? I heard FD alternators, but that seems like extra work and would probably be hard to acquire. There's an 86 GXL at the local part-out place, so I could take the alternator off that (likely what I'll do) unless that's a waste of time. Other suggestions?

Also, my current alternator is Mitsubishi, I guess I could get it rebuilt or whatever... *shrug* Suggestions or advice is good =D

Oh, and I'll check the alternator wire/connection or whatever to make sure it's not corroded or anything, before I go and buy anything

PS: I don't think this is a double post... I made this thread earlier but the forum seems to have ate it, so forgive me if it's lying around somewhere.

 

If the idle drops under a load check BAC valve for proper operation. The load placed on the alternator will cause the rpm's to decrease as will the a/c when compreesor energized. The BAC valve's job is to maintain idle speed by increasing the amount of air entering the manifold at idle.

 

ROCKY: I have an extra alt lying around if you are looking for one. Just send me a PM

 

you should check that conection. thats prob not your idle problem like he said the bac controls idle under load. But if you try to start it and get nothing but a click, then try again and it got plenty of juice to kick over its prob loose terminals on your battery. If you want to get a voltmeter check your battery voltage before you start it should be higher than 10 even on a weeker system. voltmeters are $20 CAN