ac voltage problem?
06-05-2006, 12:58 AM
#2
You can cause a lot of load by using the AC, radio, ect but still!!
I would cross-check the factory gauge by taking a multimeter and testing the voltage directly acrost the battery terminals. Just make sure the meter is in voltage mode. If it is really 11 and you don't have a underdrive pulley than you might want to consider getting a rebuilt alternator for a F-body with the higher amp option!
Has it had any trouble starting yet? Let us know.
I have had my factory gauge dip that low momentarily but never for any extended period.
I would cross-check the factory gauge by taking a multimeter and testing the voltage directly acrost the battery terminals. Just make sure the meter is in voltage mode. If it is really 11 and you don't have a underdrive pulley than you might want to consider getting a rebuilt alternator for a F-body with the higher amp option!
Has it had any trouble starting yet? Let us know.
I have had my factory gauge dip that low momentarily but never for any extended period.
06-05-2006, 07:22 AM
#3
nope no problem starting, i have the stock radio and its really just at idle...it stays right above the yellow caution area, but when theres no ac on it stays around 14....umm i guess ill have to get the meter, i hate having electrical problems
06-05-2006, 12:42 PM
#4
TECH Senior Member
Could just be the battery too - when mine started dropping at idle if failed soon after. The draw down might be caused by the fans kicking on to high.
03-08-2007, 04:53 PM
#5
I have that same problem in winter time when its cold i have no problem with the voltage but when the summer time comes around if i sit at idle to long with the ac on my volts drop The battery isn't all that old but i'm thinking that is the problem if not then i guess it would have to be the Alt.. 
03-08-2007, 05:22 PM
#6
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A second vote for using a DVM/DMM to check voltage at the battery before replacing any parts. Make sure the stock gage is telling you the truth.
Do you see the "check gages" light flicker at all when the voltage drops to it's lowest point?
Do you see the "check gages" light flicker at all when the voltage drops to it's lowest point?
03-08-2007, 07:19 PM
#7
No i dont' have any light come on i just notice the voltage drop i took it to advance auto and they tested it and said that it was reading the right voltage and nothing was wrong with the battery or alt
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03-08-2007, 08:34 PM
#8
I understand your concern because when it comes to things like this. And I don't care what people say when voltage goes down amps come up. Motors and loads absorb X watts and they will get it.
Not 100% what to do since my car is always too high on the voltage problem. Maybe check all your alternator connections again. I solved a low volt problem by investigating the alternator connections. Remove, clean, retighten. All major connections.
Esp since you have a temp problem it almost sounds like thermal expansion gives you a better connection when its warm and not enough contact when its cold.
Not 100% what to do since my car is always too high on the voltage problem. Maybe check all your alternator connections again. I solved a low volt problem by investigating the alternator connections. Remove, clean, retighten. All major connections.
Esp since you have a temp problem it almost sounds like thermal expansion gives you a better connection when its warm and not enough contact when its cold.
