719c6

I noticed on the way home my voltage gage was moving to the high 11s while at idle and then moving past 13 while going down the road. Once home, I checked the voltage at idle in gear with air on high and it would drop down to 11.4 and would go to 13.2 on a little throttle. I also noticed the parking lights were flickering at idle.

Next day, started car and checked voltage at idle - 14.2. After a few minutes of running, it dropped to low 13s to high 12s. Popped hood and check at alternator and was reading 13.3 and 12.8 at battery. Also noticed lights flickering while idling.

I have no lights or error codes displayed on dash. Checked connections, all tight. No problems starting or other battery issues.

I'm guessing I need to drop it out and take it to Autozone and have it checked. If alternator, could I just replace regulator?

Unreal

cNormal GM alternator behavior. The voltage drops once they get any heat into them. If you are not getting errors or codes, its probably within the factory limits. When hot they can't keep up with amp demand at idle.

Probably nothing wrong with it. If you don't like that behavior, upgrade to an aftermarket alternator.

719c6

With 17,xxx+ posts, I'll take your word for it. Juast never noticed the lights pulsing/flickering before... but if you say so, I'll keep driving it.

Unreal

GO ahead and check grounds, check the connections, inspect everything, but voltage dropping into the 11s when hot, during this time and of year, is completely normal. Car does monitor its voltage and dash will start displaying "service charging system" if it falls out of acceptable range.

I strongly suggest a billet tech alternator for any corvette owner. Great upgrade, and rock solid steady 14+V in all weather.

719c6

Thanks for info, will check.

schpenxel

Mine is pretty much the same, it's worse in summer with radiator fan and AC fans going. With those off it can raise it about 1V

I've wanted one of those nice alternators but I'm too cheap to spend $500 on one