What would be the best way to monitor your alternator. I dont like not having a gauge to tell me when it goes out. The stupid idiot light has only worked one out of 3 times. I dont know if it has to do with the superchip tuner or what. Anyhow I would like to install a gauge and would like to know the best way to do so.

Thanks

 

Well, I have actually found that my idiot gauge on the dash is pretty accurate after some testing with a meter. I am good with it for now. Just know that when it goes closer to 12 while running you better get out the multimeter or go to the parts store for a test. IOW, anything in the upper half of the normal band is good. Below half of normal, start worrying.

 

Ya the problem is my 02s dont even have the factory gauge. There is a red battery light that is suppose to come on.

 

the last 2 times my alternator failed, the gauge never moved, but the light came on letting me know something was wrong. that was enough for me to get a volt gauge. really wish I could find an affordable ammeter in the style of gauges I like. then you really know what is going on.

 

Oh, my bad. What did they do with it? I had no idea they ommited it. Idiots on the idiot gauge.

 

Hmmm, interesting. I have found mine was pretty good at showing actual voltage during my Romp chasing my tail. Even good while running things down cranking in the cold to pump air out of the oil rails after injector swap. Of course the actual measured voltage was lower than gauge voltage when running GPs repeatedly. Good info. I'll have to remember that.

I still say that if it is above halfway on the normal range, you are charging.

 

I used one from autometer for the 4th gauge in my pod, I like it, keeps on top of things with the aux batteries I have. A while back someone posted a thread about a radio shack voltmeter that plugged into the cigarette housing. That my work for what you are wanting as well.