Normal Voltage
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Pro
Joined: Oct 2011
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Normal Voltage
What is the normal voltage range I should see when driving on the digital guage. my 94 goes anywhere from 14.6 to 15, all morning today it was 15.
My concern is I know 14 would be perfect, but is 15 too high, where I need a new alternator?
My concern is I know 14 would be perfect, but is 15 too high, where I need a new alternator?
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 1,006
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From: Spartanburg South Carolina
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2007
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From: Pennsylvania
It sounds as if you are getting perfectly fine readings. As your car warms up, it may stay around 11.5 to 14.5 if your charging system is in good working order. Even at 15 when the engine is cold, you can allow for it to be off just a bit. Warm your engine and then run the AC, turn on your high beams and put your foot on the brake all at the same time. Then see what reading you're getting. It should stay in the range of 11 to 12 under a load like that.
Last edited by FOURSPEEDVETTE; Feb 29, 2012 at 07:49 PM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 7,299
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From: Central Maryland
Lead-acid batteries require different levels of charging voltage at different temperatures. Higher voltage is required on colder days, and lower temps on hot days. The voltage regulator is temperature compensating so that it can make this happen. The FSM probably has a chart of temp vs voltage, although I haven't looked to verify this.
Live well,
SJW
Live well,
SJW
