3rd Gen guys with an Ultragauge

[Millerad1651]

Asking a favor of any 3rd gen guys who have an Ultragauge...or Scangauge I guess. If possible, could you take a look at the UG Volts the next time you are driving?
I've been having voltage issues, and still can't pin point it. I changed the brushes on my alternator a couple weeks ago, but it still doesn't seem right. Whenever I start up, the volts are at 14.2+, but as I'm driving the volts drop down to 13.2-13.8. I've read this can be normal, but also read it should stay around 14.2-14.5.
I didn't pay attention to my volts before the alternator crapped out, so it may be normal for my truck...just trying to see what happens with others.
For reference, here is my volts after a 20 minute drive in to work...


Thanks for any help.

 

[farmerjon]

13 range seems normal, from what I remember on my UG. I need to fix my pages on my UG, but between 12 and 14 is normal... I think there is a bit about voltages in the UG manual as well (downloadable online).

Speaking of, I'm here in IN - been to Indy once or twice already, probably will be there again in early Oct. with friends.

 

[mcaz5]

I don't recall my exact numbers from my UG, but the numbers from my Escort 8500 stay in the 13.2-13.6V range. That's with fog lights, amp and subs, aftermarket radio. So you seem fine.

 

[Kurtis]

Completely normal. I've been running an Ultragauge for a few weeks and a constant volt meter for quite a few months maybe a year now.

 

[Greg_Canada]

I'll check for you on my SG2 on my way home from work tonight.

From what i remember, it's 14.1-14.5v when cold, and once it's warmed up, typically in the 13.5-13.8v range. I had my alt rebuilt a few months ago with a new voltage regulator as it was shot...

 

[LittleCaesar]

A-OK. If you see 12......., then starting worrying.

 

[TheDurk]

Here's what the FSM says, sounds like you're good:

Check the charging circuit as follows:
With the engine running from idling to 2,000 rpm, check
the reading on the ammeter and voltmeter.
Standard amperage: 10 A or less
Standard voltage:
At 25 °C (77 °F): 13.7 - 14.7 V
At 115 °C (239 °F): 13.2 - 14.0 V

You can be sure the amps are below 10A if you have been driving a while, unless the battery is really toasted or you have a major low-resistance short.

 

[Millerad1651]

Thanks for the info guys. Its good to know that its normal now. Glad the brushes worked...nothing like a $4 fix to make you feel good!

[MENTION=81047]farmerjon[/MENTION]
Let me know next time you come to town. There is a 4Wheel Jamboree at the fairgrounds Sept 20-22, always a good time. The local 4Wheel Parts puts on a party with rock crawling, a truck show, and free food!

 

[farmerjon]

Thanks for the info guys. Its good to know that its normal now. Glad the brushes worked...nothing like a $4 fix to make you feel good!

[MENTION=81047]farmerjon[/MENTION]
Let me know next time you come to town. There is a 4Wheel Jamboree at the fairgrounds Sept 20-22, always a good time. The local 4Wheel Parts puts on a party with rock crawling, a truck show, and free food!

Awww man! I have a dorm event that weekend that I've already committed to - otherwise I would seriously consider coming down for one of those days!

I'll be here for a while... we'll meet up soon!