TCMars

Issue
I'm only seeing 10 to 12V on my charge indicator as opposed to the 14v I should be getting. The alternator is brand new and tested as good and the battery appears to be good, but nothing is getting charged. The only thing that seems screwy is that the cable running to the regulator w/in the alternator is reading almost 0v once the truck is on, but 12 when it's off. I've had this issue for about a week now and had to jump my battery once because of it. Although most of the time it seems to be charging at 12-ish I'd rather get it fixed. Any ideas? Thanks!

Vehicle
Year: 96
Model: K1500
Engine: 5.0L V8, Automatic
Miles: 101K

kevinkpk

Since the alternator is new, did you recheck that plug? The (on alot of GM) has the internal voltage regulator from it to the guage or light, back to the field plug of the alternator.

TCMars

Not sure how else to check it, maybe just replace the plug itself?

kevinkpk

Are you having slow cranking issues? I'd suggest you verify the actual voltage with a voltmeter.

OLD WRENCH

Check to see if you have a voltage reading between the alt. CASE and the batt NEG. term with the motor running. This would indicate a bad ground. LOng shot but it happens.

TCMars

Well folks, I have to report that after much tinkering and measuring voltage and fooling around it was finally discovered that it was the human link that had somehow failed. All that happened is that the nut on the post connecting the battery and the alternator had come lose. My only vindication is the fact that 3 mechanics and the folks at Advanced Auto Parts couldn't figure it out.
I'm off to Home Depot tomorrow to get myself a locking washer :P

kevinkpk

Move on, and chock it up as a learning moment. Glad it is fixed.