View Full Version : Charging System Voltage


Aurora By Olds
08-05-04, 11:43 PM
I always keep and eye on the voltage meter, and I usually check it while cruising downt he highway. Within the last few months, it has been dropping a few tenths of a volt every time I check it. It used to run right around 15.6v (off of the guage) with everything electrical on (including my amp) and now, it has dropped to a constant 14.3v. It doesnt seem to matter what I leave on electrically, or temperature, or engine rpm either.
The battery was new back in January, and still reads 12.0v across it.
So im wondering is my alt. going bad after 9 years & 110k, or is 14.3v still acceptable?

Ranger
08-06-04, 01:34 PM
14.3 is quite normal. Mine varies from mid 14's to mid 13's depending on load. A/C seems to be the biggest draw. I wouldn't worry about it.

Twilightcall
08-06-04, 01:52 PM
I agree with Ranger. Start worrying when it is charging in the 12s with no accessories on.

infin1ty
08-06-04, 11:02 PM
I have a '97 Aurora in which the DIC reads 15V + when charging. The strange thing is that also the oil pressure "sometimes" reads abnormally high. I wonder if the calibration may be off on these readings.

eldorado1
08-06-04, 11:29 PM
It probably is off. Check it with a digital volt meter, and I bet you'll be around 14.5V.