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Why isn't alternator charging battery as soon as I start the truck?

Tiny
MITCHF
  • MEMBER
  • 2000 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
  • 167,070 MILES
I have a brand new battery and a brand new 145 amp alternator. When I start my truck the volt gauge is at 12 volts. After 10 to 15 minutes of driving it is down to 11 volts. Then a few minutes later the voltage gauge will go up to 14 volts and remain there as long as I am driving. I have to go thru this routine almost everytime I start my truck.
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Saturday, July 14th, 2012 AT 5:42 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
MHPAUTOS
  • MECHANIC
  • 31,937 POSTS
I would be thinking a bad electrical conection have you tested the alt output directly off the alt with a multi meter or just relying on a voltmeter in the car?
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Saturday, July 14th, 2012 AT 6:11 AM
Tiny
MITCHF
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
I haven't checked the alt output directly yet, I've just been going off the voltmeter. Exactly where should I check it it at and at what setting should I have my meter on? Thanks for responding, Mitchf, much appreciated!
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Saturday, July 14th, 2012 AT 7:42 AM
Tiny
MHPAUTOS
  • MECHANIC
  • 31,937 POSTS
Check at the main terminal large (bolt on) you will want a multi meter with a 20V scale or a bit higher will be ok, let me know what the voltage is there, at idle and at 1200rpm's
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Saturday, July 14th, 2012 AT 9:20 AM

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