Is this an alternator problem?

[vr4gasmtt]

Ok its not something that really affects the car, but sometimes when i shift gears, the car loses power, electrical wise. For example, I'm driving at night and the speedometer gauges are on, and when i shift they dim a little.

This only happens sometimes.

Also another question, my AC control doesn't light up sometimes. I usually have to hit it a few times and then it will finally turn on, whats wrong with it?

Thanks in advance

 

[OSXer]

Ok its not something that really affects the car, but sometimes when i shift gears, the car loses power, electrical wise. For example, I'm driving at night and the speedometer gauges are on, and when i shift they dim a little.

This only happens sometimes.

I'm guessing it happens if you are sitting in neutral and stopped, then you rev and things brighten up a bit? If so, I'd agree it's the alternator at fault.

 

[speedy_talon28]

I don't know about the 1st question but the question about the ac control, you might want to check for a loose conection

 

[CruisinGSX]

I wouldn't be so hasty as to blame the dim lights on the alternator. The first thing I would look for (or upgrade) is ground wires between the body, exhaust and engine. The negative wire going to the battery is connected to the engine, and you have several other grounds that go through the body. Thus, some of the "linking grounds" could be corroded or even broken off. How about trying to hook up a couple more ground wires between the engine, exhaust and body?