Hi all, the mini has been running well until a few days ago when we heard an odd "fsss psshh psst" type sound coming from the battery area. After closer inspection (I turned to the right whilst seated in the passenger seat and looked down, our mini is a 76 panelvan) I could see battery fluid spurting from the 'maintenance free' cap thingies on the top and the sides have bloated out.

After some searching here on gool 'ol ausmini I read that the battery is probably being over charged and that the voltage regulator in our 15A Lucas alternator is probably knackered. I would test it but the battery in my multimeter is dead.

Is there another means to test If the voltage regulator is dead and, if so, is there a way to put another inline so I don't have to have the current alternator rebuilt?

Thanks for the help,

Marty & Manda

The fact that the battery is getting fatter and it is suffering incontinence is a good indication that the regulator is shagged.
Are the headlights brighter than usual?
Does the starter kick over quicker?
Do you blow fuses?
Do the songs on the radio play quicker?

To check voltage regulator put a voltmeter across the battery terminals with engine running.
The 15AC alternator with external 4TR regulator should give about 14.3-14.7V. This regulator is non- adjustable.
I'm not sure if this regulator is still made now, but I bought a new one about 5 years ago in a green Lucas box.
p/no on the box is NCB148.

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DrMini- 1970 wasaMatic 1360, Mk1S crank, 86.6HP (ATW) =~125 @ crank, 45 Dellorto (38 chokes), RE282 sprint cam, 1.5 rockers, 11.0:1 C/R.