altenator charging question

[sixster]

it seems after my car is warmed up - coolent 165 or so
my volts are 12.9 to 13.6 but average 13.2 mostly
this was driving at night lights & radio on in car

i started the car cold today & the back of the alt was 14.7 - 14.8
on the scanmaster it was 14.0 - 14.3

so what do i need to do , to keep it charging 13.8 to 14.2
all the time
thanks

 

[83ttypecooled]

Hi,
The difference between alternator and scanmaster voltage is probably largely voltage drop due to resistance in the charging circuit. That said, you don't want the system voltage to stay at the high level you mentioned always, as load and temperature will cause lower voltages. I think your system is operating normally.

 

[mikestertwo]

That voltage you are reading on SM is not battery voltage, it's ignition voltage. Your readings are normal...you don't have a problem.