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Hi All,

Replaced a dead alternator (Auto Shop tested it) in my 66 Plymouth, but unclear of what i see for voltage at the battery (the battery is brand new and charged to 12.5). I am used to newer cars where you see a decent charging voltage (13.5), here I see 12.2 at idle and the in-dash ammeter shows little change, but the voltage does go up when I rev the engine (12,3, 12.4)and the ammeter moves to the charging side, is this normal?

Thanks, BAM



If the ammeter goes to charge and the battery voltage is only 12.3 or 12.4 either the battery is down somewhat or the voltmeter is off. Just starting the car would draw the battery down enough to keep the voltage low for several minutes. Its possible all is well and you need to run it down the road for 20 minutes to bring the battery up than test again. The MOPAR regulator, when warm, should put out around 13-13.2 volts with the at engine at fast idle or more, a charged battery and no heavy electrical loads.