Topic: does this sound like an alternator problem?

[rehmus]

OK.. so on my 78 TA at low idle (500rpm) the lights begin to flicker with the engine idle, and the alternator gauge is all over the place.. but if its running at 1000rpm or better everything is copasetic.  Any ideas where the source of this issue might be?  could it be a weak battery, alternator, electrical wiring, etc?

[Joker (§ir£Ğragon)]

Well, three things come to mind. You're idle may be a little low, your belt may be loose, or the alternator isn't getting a signal through the brown wire to actively charge.

[milly]

Quick tip: to see if the alt is charging when the engine is running, touch the back or the alt. with a metal screw driver or knife blade. If the alt. is magnatized (the screw driver or knife blade will be pulled to the alt. case), then the alt. is charging.

[milly]

Only if you touch the wiring connectors while you're grounded Hammer. Stick your tongue on it like the way you would test a 9 volt battery. 

[Joker (§ir£Ğragon)]

Only if you touch the wiring connectors while you're grounded Hammer. Stick your tongue on it like the way you would test a 9 volt battery. 

Or better yet, get your wife/girlfriend to.