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1998 exporer sport V-6, measure 14 volts with the engine running. doesn't vary with RPM or with headlights/accessories on/off. Just wanted to be sure it's functioning normally.
also, my battery's shot...any brand recommendations?
Get a good battery before trying to check the alternator for charge rate, right now it is pumping out juice to maintain the defective battery
Fully charge the new battery with a battery charger. Alternator is not designed to deep charge the battery.
EO, B voltage 12.2-12.5 Good
ER@2000RPM B Voltage 14.0-14.5 good
Test the battery before replacing. Open voltage should be at least 12 volts. Then unplug the coil pack and crank the engine. If the voltage goes below 9.6 volts or so (a little less is okay if the ambient temp is low) while the engine is cranking, replace the battery. Just testing the voltage on the battery is not a good test. You need to load test it also.