[V8] charging problem/ alternator

[DasWolfen at aol.com]

In a message dated 3/31/04 2:56:31 PM Eastern Standard Time, skramer at mac.com 
writes:

> Sometimes , the car starts up normally and these lights are out .  Head
> voltage is 13.8  .  When the lights are dim - the voltage is 11.8
> 
> Another possibility is that  when this happens is with my temp / gas guage
> goes dead.   .
> 
> 
> Any thoughts

 You've already figured out your problem Steve...

13.8 means the alt is charging normally
11.8 means it not charging at all (you're running off straight battery power)

 Intermittant operation of the alt is a classic worn voltage regulator brush 
symptom.

Since you already know you have the original alt I recommend replacing the 
whole alt.