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Audio Systems/1970 Motorola intermittent radio fade

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Expert: - 3/9/2009


Question
Good morning,
I have a 1970's era Motorola AM/FM/8-track in a vintage 1970 Firebird.  The radio has worked fine for years but now fades in and out (but only when the engine is running).  If the car is parked and the radio is running off the car battery, it works fine, but once the engine is started, the radio will fade out after ~30 seconds, then fade out and in in a rhythmic cycle.  Some car buffs have told me one of the 3 issues is likely:
1. The alternator is on its way out and can't feed the battery, spark plugs and radio.
2. The battery is on its way out, and is hindering the alternator.
3.  An internal component in the radio is wearing/worn out. (I think this is unlikely since it works fine if the engine isn't runing).
Any input would be appreciated, thanks!

Answer
I believe there was no alternator in 1970 only a small generator some people modified this and use altenator
but it needs to additional small coails to protect the radio
do you have them they are small  with one wire and the size of a d battery or smaller  

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Ernesto R

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Please year and model of the vehicle i need all the details I'am a car electronics installer with 23 years of experience. I'am very familiar with installations of in-dash head units,factory head units, factory car audio, hands-free phone kits, auxiliary audio inputs and iPod iPhone interface integration and security systems if you need any help with your factory stereo, or how to add auxiliary audio or listen to your ipod android in the vehicle I currently have a MECP Master Installation Technician certification. My answers are based on my experience in vehicles and my knowledge of automotive electronics I don't put much emphasis on brand names; you won't often find me putting down a brand or pushing one on dont send me a list of what brands i like better sorry i can not help you with aftermarket or vehicles that are not in the u.s.a also video and security

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