(Home) Warning lights and flat battery. Auto 84 Spacecruiser (Sp+)

I have the above and would like to know if anyone has an answer to my technical question.please. I have spoken to toyota who tell me to ring a 'local dealership' and when i do they say they have no real knowledge of my model !!.
My problem is i have 2 warning lights on, the battery light and the low coolant warning light. This has happened 'out of the blue'. My battery has now drained and is obviously getting no charge from the alternator.Before i just go ahead and replace the alternator to hopefully cure the problem i would like to know if there are any fuses or obvious common faults that i may be overlooking that any of you people have had giving this syptom?
Any help would be appreciated
Thanks
Ian - (#25) ian, 26 Feb 01

The Townace handbook states that "Should the battery warnining light and Fuel water Filter Warning Light show at the same time, it is indicative of a charging problem and not a Fuel Water Filter problem". Obviously this is aimed at diesel engines bit it stands to reason that using the radiator level warning light for the petrol engine follows the same principal.
I have the Toyota Model F, workshop manuals and there is no reference to both lights being on together but would assume from the above that you have a charging problem. To quote from the workshop manual:
Problem - charge light does not go out with engine running (battery requires frequent charging). Possible cause and remedy:
1. drive belt loose or worn - adjust or replace drivebelt
2. battery cables loose, corroded or worn - repair or replace cables
3. fuse blown - check fuse
4. ignition main relay faulty - check ignition main relay
5. fusible link blown - replace fusible link
6. wiring faulty - repair wiring
7. alternator regulator, IC regulator or alternator faulty - check charging system
If you have checked 1 to 6 and all are ok, then you need to check your charging system. You will need an ammeter and voltmeter.
If you want further details on how to check the alternator, e-mail me. - (#26) Ian Dunse, 28 Feb 01

I have a similar problem with my 1984 Model F, both light come on but only above 3000rpm? so the battery stays charged. If you have managed to sort out your problem please let me know just in case it cures mine too.
- (#328) phil, 20 Jun 01