Where have all the volts gone

[jnj]

Hello all,
Another strange occurance. Last night while in heavy traffic I looked at the guages and noticed the amps way down in the 9 shaded area and the engine temp within 1/4" of the 260 mark. It was only 59 degrees outside, the car usually runs alot cooler under the same conditions. Quickly, I shut off the Fogs, CD, Radio and Fan. Nothing on now except the headlights. Guages are remaining in the same positions. As I give her some RPMs, the charge guage moves up slightly. Got it home and shut her off. Almost too scared to try to start her last night. Alternator liiks like the stock unit. Is it possible that it just went out?, How about the battery, any damage?. Also, does GM offer any higher power alternator for the '91 L98? Thanks for any input

 

[Ken]

The alternator may be on its way out f it's a stock unit, or even if it's been replaced already. The units are prone to failure; I know people who won't travel without a spare alternator in their C4. I never had a problem with my stock unit, but I went through an aftermarket race alternator already. :L

I wouldn't worry about the battery unless you really dragged it down for an extended period of time. Even then a simple charge should renew it.

The cooling thing: a description such as a "1/4" from the 260°" mark doesn't tell me much. However, I'm guessing that it probably wasn't that bad - 1/4" is a long way in a little gauge.

Relax and take it one step at a time - you didn't hurt anything.

 

[Edmond]

You can have the battery tested at an auto parts store for free if you do not have a tester at home. If you replace the alternator, make sure to get a Delco unit, new.

 

[G Winter]

regarding the engine temp. with that low of voltage the guage may not have been working properly .