Acceptable voltage on a C6
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 48
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Acceptable voltage on a C6
I just put a new battery in my C6, and I have been monitoring the voltage. It goes as low as 13.6 during idle, but only as high as 14.2 while driving. Does this sound like a weak alternator? I thought it was supposed to be around 14.5. Thanks in advance for any input!!
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 126
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From: Dallas , Texas
normal - i see 12.5 sitting in traffic and around 14.0 when cruising. been like that for last 2 years, i thought there was a issue I put in a brand new alternator / battery cleaned up all the connectors/ grounds still the same.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Feb 2014
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thank you very much! Maybe I am just being paranoid.
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Intermediate
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2014
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From: Atlanta GA
I just put a new battery in my C6, and I have been monitoring the voltage. It goes as low as 13.6 during idle, but only as high as 14.2 while driving. Does this sound like a weak alternator? I thought it was supposed to be around 14.5. Thanks in advance for any input!!
Dave
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 2,232
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From: Bridgewater New Jersey
I just put a new battery in my C6, and I have been monitoring the voltage. It goes as low as 13.6 during idle, but only as high as 14.2 while driving. Does this sound like a weak alternator? I thought it was supposed to be around 14.5. Thanks in advance for any input!!
You could check with a in-expensive volt-ohm meter the output from the alternator to confirm.
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Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 48
Likes: 1
You'll probably get about 14.6 at the back of the alternator large lug connection, but due to wiring resistance, the battery voltage will be about 14.2, same as reported on the dash. With the ac on and idling, voltage is expected to be much lower and your voltage seems in line.
You could check with a in-expensive volt-ohm meter the output from the alternator to confirm.
You could check with a in-expensive volt-ohm meter the output from the alternator to confirm.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2006
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C6 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019
Those are normal numbers for a C6. GM designed the Alt to minimum tollerances when at speed. This means less than optimal V at idle or under extreme conditions, like 100 degree air temp.
Billit Tech Alts are more robust and produce 14.6 V at idle with max load. Highly recommend when you need a replacement. Everything runs a little smoother with correct V supply.
Billit Tech Alts are more robust and produce 14.6 V at idle with max load. Highly recommend when you need a replacement. Everything runs a little smoother with correct V supply.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 48
Likes: 1
Those are normal numbers for a C6. GM designed the Alt to minimum tollerances when at speed. This means less than optimal V at idle or under extreme conditions, like 100 degree air temp.
Billit Tech Alts are more robust and produce 14.6 V at idle with max load. Highly recommend when you need a replacement. Everything runs a little smoother with correct V supply.
Billit Tech Alts are more robust and produce 14.6 V at idle with max load. Highly recommend when you need a replacement. Everything runs a little smoother with correct V supply.
