A week ago I posted about a stutter at low rpm's and rough idle that showed up in my 94Z. There was also black smoke coming from the tailpipes (rich or misfire?). I went on a trip for the last week, and now my battery is completely dead...not even the map lights/power locks work. So it came across my mind that, while I was thinking I need to change the plugs, wires, or opti...could my problem actually be the very weak battery? The stuttering/smoke appeared just a couple days after upgrading to a strereo with slightly more current draw. In any case, I'm changing the battery first, but I'd like to know what you think.

 

If your battery is going dead...could have a few problems....
Alternators going out (not charging battery)
Battery sucks (is it sealed or lead acid??)
you have a short somewhere causing you to lose voltage.

If you want to test the battery, do a voltage drop test before you replace it. I would hate to waste the money on a new battery if your old one is fine. And if you get a new battery...I suggest a optima or a sealed battery (a maintenace free one)

James

 

I got the charging system tested a few months ago and it reported the alt was good and the battery was marginal, so I know it's time for that to go. I'm gonna be getting a yellow top tomorrow...but could the battery also be causing the ignition problem?

 

Well your charging system should keep the voltage up while the car is running, but it is possible!!
James