Hi All

I have a Carisma GDI (2001).

I hae been suffering from intermittent flat batteries recently.

Last night I had to Jump start the car because of a flat battery, I then drove 80 miles at night.

I had the alternater warning light on for the complete journey (& the headlights).

I can't believe it is the alternator, I started with a flat battery & still managed to drive 80 odd miles with lights.
When i finally got home there was absolutely no charge in the battery.

Is there a rectifier, is it part of the alternator or seperate, if seperate where is it located?

Any suggestions greatfully recieved.

Gareth

Alternators in my experience usually have the rectifier + regulator in the alternator.
The rectifier has 9 or so diodes as there is more than one phase on the alternator.
One of the most usual problems with alternators is the brushes wearing out.
But in your case this is not the problem.
Are the lights dimmer than usual when you drove the 80 miles.
Put a volt meter accross the terminals of battery. Voltage should rise from approx 12 v to 13.7 or 14v when you start the car and rev up a bit as alternator goes to charge.

Is the connection from alternator to battery sound.

note: Me no mechanic

LH