Charging Problem

[Outpost]

Sometimes I notice the BAT display on the Scanmaster drops to volt values in the very low 11's and sometimes even the high 10's. This does not seem to correspond with any specific driving conditions or accessory use, and the voltage output does not seem to change with engine speed. I've replaced the battery, both battery cables and the alternator with no change. The problem does not occur all the time, but I'm worried that it may get worse. What should I check next?

 

[Steve Wood]

The first thing you do is to determine if the alternator output is the same as the SM readout in order to know if you have a charging problem or a circuit problem somewhere in between the alternator and the SM which is reading the ecm voltage.

 

[BLACK6PACK]

I had the same problem. It actually ended up being 2 problems.

1. the regulator in the alternator would get hot and quit.

2. I have a digital dash and the connection on the back of the gauge pod was less than perfect. The wire going to the volt light on the dash was making intermitant contact and wouldn't charge. When the volts drop, push or wiggle the gauge pod and see if it jumps back up. If so you have a loose connection.

 

[Black1986Beast]

Do you have an underdrive pulley?
I believe that may cause low voltage readings also..