Charging Issues... Again

[peobryant]

I'm having more issues with my truck charging. My voltmeter only shows about 10 volts (on the dash) and seeing as I just replaced the alternator not more than 3 months ago, and the voltage regulator yesterday, I'm thinking the battery is at fault because it's older than any of the other parts. My question though, is would a bad battery (one that won't hold a charge) make the voltage meter only show 10 volts, or would it still show the normal voltage but not take a charge? I know some may say the dash gauge may be off but my windows roll down much slower and my lights aren't nearly as bright so I know she isn't getting the voltage she needs.

If the battery can't be the culprit, what do you suggest I check? I suppose the ZAPA Alternator could be bad but I wouldn't assume so in such a short period of time.


Thanks for any help.

[ellis93]

If you bought a reman alt,its very likely that it could be bad. Does the volt gauge go up if you rev your motor?

[BobS]

Maybe first try putting a real voltmeter on the alternator to get the reading. I never totally rely on the one in the dash and consider it as a relative indicator at it's best. Over the years I have seen them from spot on to being off by +/- 5 volts.

[firstgenjunkie]

Have you load tested your battery to see if it's the problem? Vato Zone or any of the others should do that for free.

[peobryant]

If you bought a reman alt,its very likely that it could be bad. Does the volt gauge go up if you rev your motor?

That's what I'm worried about. It's not like replacing the alternator is hard, but I have so little free time now I'd rather spend it with my son than working on my truck. Nope, volt gauge stays low, and when I put it in gear it drops a little lower.

Maybe first try putting a real voltmeter on the alternator to get the reading. I never totally rely on the one in the dash and consider it as a relative indicator at it's best. Over the years I have seen them from spot on to being off by +/- 5 volts.

Unfortunately I don't have access to one right now. I tried getting ahold of my father earlier to see if he has one, but I haven't heard back as of yet. I know the dash gauge isn't the most accurate, but like I said the windows and lights combined with the dash gauge are more than enough for me to know she isn't charging.

Have you load tested your battery to see if it's the problem? Vato Zone or any of the others should do that for free.

On my way to do that after I pick up Dallas from work. This would be so much easier if she had a car...


Thanks for the help.

[dazedandconfused]

Did you get it figured out?