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battery volts question

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Old Nov 17, 2003 | 01:32 PM
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Default battery volts question

1997 vette what should be the volts showing on the dash when you first start the car. my car starts at 13.0 then slowly drops by the time the temp is about 220 temp
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Old Nov 17, 2003 | 11:09 PM
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Default Re: battery volts question (vrodri3978)

At 13 volts your in good shape. Anything below 12.75 and your in big trouble the battery is on it's way out. But you shouldn't be dropping down you should be up around 13.5 to 14.1 and that tell you the alternator is doing it's job. If your dropping down from 13 I would be checking out the alternator. Hope this helps if I am all wet someone else will chime in to correct me I am sure. That's what this place is all about. Good luck with it. :thumbs: :seeya
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Old Nov 17, 2003 | 11:23 PM
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Default Re: battery volts question (Stock Man)

I have a early 98, and my gauge cluster says the same thing. The gauge isn't accurate. Check the voltage at the alternator.
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Old Nov 17, 2003 | 11:42 PM
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Default Re: battery volts question (Face)

:iagree: :iagree: Volt meter on the + & - post on the battery. That is your charging voltage. Also put the + lead on the output of the alternator and ground. Voltage should be the same as the battery voltage. My 98 reads 13.9 no load and fully loaded it = 13.2 My battery is on it way out!!

If your going below 13.0 volts, I would have a good starter/alternator shop test the system for proper operation. Most will do it for FREE!!

Bill C
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Old Nov 18, 2003 | 03:58 PM
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Default Re: battery volts question (vrodri3978)

thanks for the info i will have to go and get the car check out
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