Charging problem

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Nov 18, 2002 | 04:24 PM

79bigblue

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Joined: Oct 2001

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Charging problem

At an idle my amps are just above 12, when I turn my lights on, the amps go to about 11 to 10.5. Is this an acceptable amp reading. I thought it should read a little higher than that. Whe I rev the engine up it will go up to about 13. It is a new alternator, new regulator. Any ideas?

79 f250 460 4 speed

Nov 18, 2002 | 06:05 PM

Mil1ion

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Charging problem

I'm sure those are Volts you are talking about.

12 Volts with engine off is good.
13-14.2 Volts with engine running and no power drain is about right.

There are a few tests involving the revs & Power to accessories that can be done to determine if the Alternator & V/R are working properly.

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Nov 18, 2002 | 08:05 PM

Mike W

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Joined: Apr 2002

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From: Central Kali

Charging problem

You should be getting around 14v at a fast idle. Check the voltage at the field terminal. If it is about 12 volts, the regulator is telling the alternator to put out max voltage. If everything is working normally, the field voltage will be lower with no lights, etc.