Erratic voltage readings
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
From: Orlando
Erratic voltage readings
Hi all, I have a problem with my 92's voltage readings from the digital dash's display. It fluctuates between approx 12.2 and 14.7 volts while driving. I think that it used to be steady at 14.something. So, hastily, I decide that the alternator is on it's way out, seen this type of thing before with my GM metal cars. New alternator, same thing. Thinking it's a bad ground/connection of some type now. So before I get hasty again and read the shop manual, do any of you have any comments or suggestions on this?
Thanks,
Rich
Thanks,
Rich
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
From: STOCKTON, CA. SAN JOAQUIN
Re: Erratic voltage readings (RedZ07)
Yes it is possible you might have the Alt going...If there is any bearing noise it is going...BUT 12.2 to 14.4 is a range the Alt works in. If the BAt is charged well it could go to 12.2. But any lower, 12.0, 11.8 its out of there...Ground wire maybe, but there is not to much to the one wire Alts. If it is going it will take a dive on the volts when you run the AC, high beams and heater all togther...Try it it....It should hold 12.8 to 13.2 under real load. Good luck
Bob 1989 6 speed :confused: :smash: :confused:
Bob 1989 6 speed :confused: :smash: :confused:
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 54,124
Likes: 30
From: Cincinnati, Oh USA
Re: Erratic voltage readings (RedZ07)
Sounds like a poor connection to the dash circuit board. You can remove the dash cover and remove the instrument cluster and unplug the connector and plug it back in and have a good chance of cleaning itself and remedying your problem. Stick a voltmeter on your cigarette lighter and see if it wobbles . If not, then you have a bad connection to your instrument cluster.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,075
Likes: 2
From: Brookhaven Pa
Re: Erratic voltage readings (RedZ07)
I had the same problem in my '94. It turned out that the ground cable was loose on the battery, I tightened the bolt and everything settled down. Hope this helps.
