Can someone PLEASE help?
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 378
Likes: 0
Can someone PLEASE help?
Just put on a new alternator a few minutes ago...but I'm still having problems. When I'm at cruising speed or WOT the voltage is fine, but when I'm sitting there idling, the voltage starts to drop and the rpms change from 7 to 5 back and forth. I already cleaned out my IAC so I dont know why the rpm is bouncing. I have no clue what to do next, I figured a new alternator would do the trick. Ideas anyone??? please?!?!
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 2,510
Likes: 4
From: Austin Texas
I think we are dealing with 2 different things here. Your battery voltage will drop a little at idle vs. WOT or normal driving because the alternator belt is not spinning as fast and thus is not outputting as much current to the battery. This voltage drop is normal unless excessive. As long as you stay above approx. 12.4V at all times, you should be OK. Make sure your alternator ground connection is solid!!!
Your hunting idle problem should not be related to your alternator issue. You may want to check for vacumm leaks. I spray small amounts of carb. cleaner all around my intake, especially near rubber hose connections while car is idleing.
Need more info: How low is your voltage reading at idle???
Your hunting idle problem should not be related to your alternator issue. You may want to check for vacumm leaks. I spray small amounts of carb. cleaner all around my intake, especially near rubber hose connections while car is idleing.
Need more info: How low is your voltage reading at idle???
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 54,124
Likes: 30
From: Cincinnati, Oh USA
At 500 rpm, your voltage regulator in the alternator cannot provide enough field current to keep its rated 14.7 volts output. There was probably nothing wrong with the alternator you removed. You need to fix your idle, not change alternators!
