Why is the voltage reading on my alternator going up?

While watching the voltmeter display, start wiggling wires at the back of the alternator, the battery, and the remote voltage regulator (if there is one). If the voltage reading on the meter display goes up while wiggling one of the wires, you’ve found a bad electrical wire or connection.

Why does my voltmeter only show 9 volts?

Take the dash bezel out (it is only held by plastic tabs, pull and it will come right out. remove the wiring from any switches stuck in the bezel and put the bezel out of the way. Look at the back of the cluster. The voltmeter contacts are metal tabs that need cleaning or are not making firm contact.

What should the voltage drop be on a car starter?

Either post type, crank the engine. Should get less that 0.1 volts. Test the negative circuit with your voltmeter from the battery negative post to the engine block and crank the engine. Should get less than 0.5 volts, but really around 0.2 to 0.3 volts is normal.

When to troubleshoot an unusual voltage system drop?

Troubleshooting for Unusual Voltage System Drops Usually, the first sign that your charging system is in trouble is a “battery,” “ALT,” or “CHARGE” warning light illuminating on your instrument panel while driving. It means that for some reason, the alternator has stopped charging the battery and your car is running on battery power.

What would make my voltage drop from 14 to 11?

First I had the battery light flash in message center and voltage was at 14.7 and took to AutoZone and replaced battery. Light was off for one day then back on. Then next day voltage was at 14.7 and stopped and started back up and I noticed the volt meter went to 11 and stayed there.

Why does the voltmeter fluctuate between 12 and 14 volts?

This will cause the voltmeter to fluctuate between 12 and 14 volts as opposed to non-regulated systems that usually maintain a more consistent reading of 14 volts. This fluctuation with the RVC system is normal system operation and NO repairs should be attempted.

Why does my voltage guage only show 9-10 volts?

My voltage guage usually points near the red mark at 9-10 volts. Batteries cranks the starter quickly and it does not seem to lack any electric power. Some times driving, it will raise to about 12 V, but never above, and the next minut point at 9 again.

Can a bad battery cause an alternator to over charge?

Make sure that all the connections to the alternator, remote voltage regulator (if applicable) and battery are clean, tight and in good condition. Check your battery or have it tested at your local auto parts store. A bad battery cell can cause the alternator to over-charge the good battery cells.

What happens when the diodes in an alternator go bad?

Alternators use diodes to rectify alternating current produced by the alternator into direct current. When one or more diodes go bad, the alternator can cause all kinds of problems. AC voltage leak can cause your lights to dim and drain power from your battery, for example.

What to do if your alternator is over charging the battery?

Ask an assistant to start the engine and hold engine speed at about 1500 RPM. Measure voltage across the battery with your DMM. You should get 0.5 to 2 volts higher than base voltage. If you are getting more than 2 volts above base voltage, most likely your alternator is over-charging the battery or the battery is faulty.

Can a one wire alternator be used for restomod?

One-wire alternators are a popular charging option for street rod and restomod builds. Unfortunately, the convenience that comes with this type of charging system presents a challenge for many users.

When to use battery light to test alternator?

The other critical tool to effectively diagnose an alternator is a scan tool. On older vehicles, the battery light would turn on the alternator light when the alternator output or battery voltage dropped below a preset value. The battery light on modern vehicles, however, is controlled by data and trouble codes.

Why is the charge indicator light red on my alternator?

It also means they have a red light staring them in the face any time they go for a drive. One solution to this is to simply remove the charge warning light from the gauge cluster. The more practical option is to install our 11 volt sensor module to keep the otherwise ever-present light at bay.

What is the wiring diagram for an alternator?

Alternator Demo Wiring, Connection To Battery, Capacitors, Inverter – Alternator To Battery Wiring Diagram Wiring Diagram will come with several easy to follow Wiring Diagram Instructions. It is meant to aid all of the average person in building a correct system.

Why is the voltage reading on my alternator going up?