Originally Posted by TJP
Originally Posted by moparx
as i understand, 13.8-14.2 is acceptable rate of charge for a 12v dc battery.
now with that said, would it be possible for the voltage gauge mounted inside the car, to pick up a 14.7v signal from the alternator, but if measured voltage at the battery, to be only 14.2 volts due to voltage drop throughout the system ?
also, how accurate are most aftermarket voltage gauges compared to a fluke meter, which many do not own ? [i own several, but i have never taken the time to compare readings against a parts store gauge]
beer

With lead acid batteries I have always aimed for 13.8 to 14.2 at the battery. Using a Fluke 87 True RMS meter.



RMS is an AC concern, not DC, but I suppose it might have an application when looking at the waveform from the alternator.