My voltmeter goes from 14 to 10 when applying brakes. What causes this?

Tiny
CONFEDSURG
  • MEMBER
  • 1995 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
  • 83,700 MILES
When applying brakes, the voltmeter goes from 14 to 10 gradually. There is no indication of stalling or other problem.
Sunday, February 12th, 2012 AT 5:34 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
  • 75,992 POSTS
Check belt tension if okay-Have the alternator load tested-start here
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Sunday, February 12th, 2012 AT 5:47 PM
Tiny
SATURNTECH9
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So does it only do it while stepping on the brake no other time?Do you have a multimeter to do some testing?
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Sunday, February 12th, 2012 AT 5:48 PM
Tiny
CONFEDSURG
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Yes, it only happens when stepping on the brake, no other time. I do not have a multimeter.
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Sunday, February 12th, 2012 AT 6:41 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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It sounds like there may be a short in the brake light wiring. Usually, if there is a problem with a loose belt or weak alt, the problem will not be limited to only the brake lights.
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Sunday, February 12th, 2012 AT 9:14 PM
Tiny
SATURNTECH9
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You will need a multimeter to check grounds etc.I would make sure the brake lights have a good ground. Also that the alternator case has a good ground.
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Monday, February 13th, 2012 AT 2:01 AM

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