Alternator

[boomer]

Well, a quick bit of background first: A couple weeks ago my car starting spitting and sputtering and died. I got it started again and it seemed to be running ok. I went to an Autozone (it was Sunday afternoon) to get the computer checked because the Check Engine light had come on. The first code they got was the MAF. This had caused the light to come on once about a month before (w/o the stalling though). So, I got one, and changed it. Now....my alternator seems to be running higher than it was before. I seem to remember it running around 14.2-14.3V. Now it's usually about 14.6ish.
Is this something should be concerned about?
Thanks,
Oliver

 

[taegdh]

Not really. 14.7 I think is within spec. The previous MAF probably had the burn off circuit of it shorted out which caused the draw on the charge system out of the alternator.


You could have the alternator checked, to ensure the voltage regulator is working properly.

 

[WhalePirot]

You could have the alternator checked, to ensure the voltage regulator is working properly.

I'd watch it to see if the voltage drops after starting up. After the battery is recharged following the drain of a start, it should drop back to the 13s or so. A fully charged battery is 13.2vdc. (6cells X 2.2vdc/cell)

You might wish to check the actual voltage at the battery with a VOM. Mine is 1 vdc off from the dash.

 

[boomer]

Ok, I really watched it on the way to work today (about 15mins in the city). It started at 14.6, and worked it's way down to 14.2. So, I guess I'm ok. I'm going to swing by garage tomorrow and check the voltage at the battery, just to double check.... Thanks
Oliver

 

[snitcher]

Have you jumped anyone off lately? Also, if you get kinda scared about the high voltage.....Turn everything on "headlights-bright, air etc etc....And maybe a few car amps! hehe