<VV> Need advice - battery hooked up backwards; what damage likely took place?

[Frank DuVal]

Like Harry says, Stock Corvair, probably just the diodes on alternator. 
If radio was on, then more trouble.

Newer radios have always on circuits, so they don't do well with reverse 
voltage. Same with any other add on electronics, say Pertronics.

Generator would be OK if the voltage regulator never closed its 
contacts. Since the car never started, they are probably fine. If it had 
started then the generator would have tried to backwards charge the 
battery, and problems would be found following the smoke trails.

If it was a very late model with a fuseable link, it probably melted 
because of the excessive current through the alternator. This would keep 
the starter from working. If an early, just check connections on the + 
battery lead, voltage regulator and red #10 awg wire in the plastic 
connector going to the main body harness.

Starter does not care which way is it hooked up, and will still spin in 
the right direction. That's why engines can be started and destruction 
reigns when batteries are installed backwards.

Frank DuVal

On 8/16/2013 11:54 AM, Harry Yarnell wrote:
> He may have blown one or more diodes in the alternator (if equiped). Starter
> shouldn't be affected.
> I'm assuming this is a Corvair...
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: virtualvairs-bounces at corvair.org
> [mailto:virtualvairs-bounces at corvair.org] On Behalf Of Kinzelman, Andy
> Sent: Friday, August 16, 2013 10:08 AM
> To: virtualvairs at corvair.org
> Subject: <VV> Need advice - battery hooked up backwards; what damage likely
> took place?
>
> Guys,
> A club member bought a new battery - and mistakenly hooked it up reverse
> polarity.  He said it was obviously wrong (sparking like mad) - I don't
> think he got to the point of trying to start it yet.  After correcting the
> error he has lights, horn, etc. but the starter won't engage.
> My guess is he likely damaged the alternator and/or regulator - anybody
> know?
> What about the starter - if he didn't try engaging it I doubt he damaged it
> - again looking for expert advice.
> Anything else likely damaged?
> Thanks,
> Andy K
> Wisconsin