Quote:
Originally Posted by hotrodhomi
No need to take it off if you can get a volt meter. It might just be your gauge. You should not read much more than 14.5VDC when running. If a newer style alternator was used they are internally regulated.
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True. but if he is asking how to test it online. He most likely has limited electrical experience. removing an alternator is very easy and not intimidating even for a beginner. it's an easy way out and That way he will know for sure what is wrong, without spending any money on a volt meter he may or may not no how to use.
Are you reading it at the gauge or the alternator or battery? reading your voltage through the gauge is inaccurate at best.
Also I doubt you will see 14.6 at the battery. I would expect around 13.6-14.2 in the real world.
If you want to learn to fix it Get a cheap $20 voltmeter, test alternator output at the battery. it should read steady between 13.8-14.6 volts. if It's jumping/spiking around you probably need a regulator.
also if you have a Les schwab in your area they will do a quick electrical test for free...