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C2 amp gauge problem

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Old Oct 12, 2024 | 11:50 AM
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Default C2 amp gauge problem

My car is charging but at low rpm my amp gauge needle is bouncing. What would make it bounce around like that? Any thoughts?
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Old Oct 12, 2024 | 09:53 PM
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A variation in charging DC voltage would show a fluctuation in the gauge. I would check the alternator to verify the output is steady DC from the rectifier circuits.
The other item which might allow fluctuation is the voltage regulator. A mechanical voltage regulator may be cycling, if it is, you should hear the points open and close.
Both can be check with your multimeter. Look at your GM Chassis Service Manual (Section 3 I believe) for guidance on testing them.
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Old Oct 13, 2024 | 09:09 AM
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Thanks for the info. I will try that and see what I come up with.
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Old Oct 13, 2024 | 11:13 AM
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Originally Posted by c2performance
My car is charging but at low rpm my amp gauge needle is bouncing. What would make it bounce around like that? Any thoughts?
The bouncing ammeter is normal provided you see between 13.8 and roughly 14.2 volts across the battery, engine running at high idle and headlamps or heater blower running. If your car has an original type mechanical regulator with vibrating points as R66 points out, under certain circumstances the needle will bounce around. A healthy battery that is topped off will show needle wiggle and bounce as the regulator points open and close more rapidly to keep from overcharging. A battery that wants a charge will suck more from the alternator and the regulator duty cycle will slow as it tends to keep the field circuit closed longer, and this calms the needle.

The C2 ammeter is connected to the electrical system with two small gauge wires between a lug on the horn relay and the starter. Positioned thusly it becomes very sensitive to system load. Press the brake pedal and illuminate the brake lights? The needle will jump, the horn and every other temporary load will do the same thing.

My bet is nothing at all is wrong. Put your DVM across the battery as above and prove it.

Dan
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