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Battery Dead twice

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Old Jun 11, 2008 | 03:41 PM
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Default Battery Dead twice

I went to start my Vette last Friday and the battery was dead so I replace it with a new one. Monday the battery was dead again. The battery gage showed the needle to the far left. Should that needle be in the middle. My guess is the Alternator must be bad. The car is sitting in my garage. What is your opinion? Replace the alternator? Anything else to check? 1990 Vette with 79,400 miles.

Thanks,
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Old Jun 11, 2008 | 07:44 PM
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Originally Posted by Ga_blueeyes
I went to start my Vette last Friday and the battery was dead so I replace it with a new one. Monday the battery was dead again. The battery gage showed the needle to the far left. Should that needle be in the middle. My guess is the Alternator must be bad. The car is sitting in my garage. What is your opinion? Replace the alternator? Anything else to check? 1990 Vette with 79,400 miles.

Thanks,
I'm betting on the alternator although it's possible you could have a current drain from a stereo/ alarm system etc. Also, it is possible to get a battery DOA from the store.

I'd load test the new battery as well as see what the output is on the alternator. Typically L98 alternators are known for being kinda weak and failing - If its the alternator, you can have a shop rebuild it or just buy a new one.

Good Luck.
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Old Jun 12, 2008 | 01:08 AM
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Check the voltage on the battery while the engine is idling. The voltage should be around 13.5 volts or so. If not, the alternator is not charging enough or at all.
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Old Jun 12, 2008 | 10:14 AM
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Thanks for the information. I will be looking at buying an alternator something this weekend. As always this site is always helpful with this kind of stuff.
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Old Jun 12, 2008 | 10:42 AM
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when I replaced my battery it went dead in a couple of days. Had it towed to dealer and found that the new battery was bad too. Exchanged it and all is well.
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Old Jun 12, 2008 | 11:16 AM
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Pop out your alternator and take it to one of the auto parts chain stores. Most of them will test it for free
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