Replaced Alternator but still problems

[TooTall]

Got a problem with Charging system.
I had been hearing a noise from the alternator for a few days and yesterday the alternator went completely out lost all electrical to the interior gauges. about 20 miles from home in traffic (los Angeles always has traffic) car was still running presumably off the battery (5 year old Optima Red Top) but I only got another 10 miles before it gave out.

Replaced the alternator and put the battery on charge. started it up and the voltage guage only reads about 10 volts. DIC reads 11.8 for battery while on the charger. Took the car in and AutoZone confirms new alternator only putting out 11.6 volts. Ordered 2nd alternator and installed it getting the same readings.
Have I just damaged the Optima and this is the cause of the bad reading or....?

 

[gmjunkie]

Got a problem with Charging system.
I had been hearing a noise from the alternator for a few days and yesterday the alternator went completely out lost all electrical to the interior gauges. about 20 miles from home in traffic (los Angeles always has traffic) car was still running presumably off the battery (5 year old Optima Red Top) but I only got another 10 miles before it gave out.

Replaced the alternator and put the battery on charge. started it up and the voltage guage only reads about 10 volts. DIC reads 11.8 for battery while on the charger. Took the car in and AutoZone confirms new alternator only putting out 11.6 volts. Ordered 2nd alternator and installed it getting the same readings.
Have I just damaged the Optima and this is the cause of the bad reading or....?

No,probly the Optima has got a shorted cell in it!!
A fully charged Good battery will be closer to 12.8-13 volts!
A battery with a bad or shorted cell can make the voltage regulator in the alternator drop back it's charging rate!
I'd try a New Battery!!