KC98LS

Hi all,

I recently installed a rebuilt power steering pump and alternator. My alternator seems to work fine, but I have a few concerns.

Currently voltage at the battery terminals with the engine at idle is a minimum of 13.6 volts, and a max of like 14.7. However if I turn on all accessories (headlights, fog lights, radio, blower motor, heated seats) the voltage will drop all the way down to 12.85..

Should this be considered normal, or is this a sign of a weak alternator? I don't want to kill my battery/get stranded. I've been driving the car with this alternator for over 5 months now. My old battery did fail on me once, but it was a very hot day, and bat was 2.5 years old, and had been killed previously by old alternator. Still concerned that alternator is too weak.


Thanks!

EthanS

I'm always interested in hearing other's opinions based upon their experience. In my experience, your 12.85 system voltage at idle is not bad at all, and should be of no concern. Everything you're describing sounds like a healthy electrical system, especially for a 20 year old car.

I am still on my original alternator in my 99. It has taken some power steering fluid over the years for sure, but not enough to kill it yet. There are times when I'm at a stop light with all accessories running and I'm at 11.4V.... but it holds idle and everything just fine, no battery light, no dimming of electronics. As soon as I touch the throttle to take off, it's back up hovering just above 13V. I'm gonna drive it until it stops working...

Just a little more info: I've got an Optima redtop battery (which I'm not impressed with over the last few years, I wont be buying another one when this one dies), and I have upgraded my ground wires and terminals per YODAONE's negative grounding issues thread on this forum.

KC98LS

Thanks, my concern is that 12.85 for an extended period of time would kill the battery/leave me stranded? Shouldn't the absolute minimum be 13.x?