Questions and Answers

Cadillac DeVille Convertible Needs Juice Q. Dear Vincent, I am writing hoping to get an answer to a problem that I am having with my 1970 Cadillac DeVille. I am experiencing a voltage fluctuation that is quite noticeable in the lighting system at low rpm and at minimal battery load. I have done some experimenting and have not resolved the problem as of yet. I was told that it may be a poor contact between the brushes in the alternator.

I have changed the alternator and the voltage regulator and the problem still exists. Do you have any suggestions as to a remedy to the problem.

• 1970 Cadillac DeVille Convertible.
• Automatic Transmission
• Power Steering and Brakes
• 472 V-8 and Quadrajet Carburetor
• Mileage is 34,673 (original)

Thank you,
Richard

A. When lights flicker like that, it is generally due to a battery that is smaller than rated for the vehicle, loose or dirty battery terminals or engine grounds.

That boat is a power hungry monster that eats a lot of electrons. The minimum battery I would put in it is a 700 amp. Then I would check all the engine and body grounds to make sure they are clean and tight.

Maybe replacing the battery cables wouldn't be a bad idea if they are old and flaky looking.