Alternator Output Voltage

SafeDave · 07-12-2006, 11:51 AM

I was wondering what should I see for the output of the alternator. I checked the guage and it says 12.4 volts while the engine is idling. Raising the RPM's doesn't change it. The house batteries at 12.6. Normal or not? Thanks

Dave

SafeDave · 07-12-2006, 11:51 AM

I was wondering what should I see for the output of the alternator. I checked the guage and it says 12.4 volts while the engine is idling. Raising the RPM's doesn't change it. The house batteries at 12.6. Normal or not? Thanks

Dave

Clay L · 07-13-2006, 02:29 AM

I am wondering about the accuracy of the gauge you are using.
A fully charged battery will read about 12.8 v or so.
I would expect to see the alternator put out more - 13.8 v to over 14 v.
If you really have 12.4 v, I think you have a problem.

KCE · 07-13-2006, 04:09 AM

I think Clayis dead on. Anything added would be "piling on".

SafeDave · 07-13-2006, 04:18 AM

Thanks. I check with 2 different meters. I believe it is time to get service. Thanks again.

Dave

Don-Savannah, GA · 07-13-2006, 06:53 AM

What is the chassis battery voltage? The primary purpose of the alternator is to charge the chassis battery.

SafeDave · 07-14-2006, 02:51 AM

One problem solved. When I got home from work I decided to do some snooping. I removed the covers under the bed to get to the engine. I discovered a corroded wire at a connector had broken off. Made the repairs and now charging. Then I discovered the solenoid on the firewall did not operate. It was getting power and that was all. I am now going to try to locate a new one. Thanks for the help everyone.