[V8] Charging Problem

[Tony and Lillie]

Subject: [V8] Charging Problem


> Hello,
>
> I just replaced a dead battery in the V8 but still get a battery warning
> indicator in the information display. I measured the voltage at the 
> terminals
> under the hood and it was 11.5V. I think it should be around 14V if the
> alternator is working properly. I cannot even see the alternator. Can it 
> be
> rebuilt? Are rebuilts available? More importantly, does my diagnosis sound
> right?
>
> Also, could the low voltage cause funky symptoms like high idle rpm and
> hunting at around 1500 rpm? There were a couple of very expensive sensors
> that were replaced that took care of similar problems not too many km ago 
> so
> I would hope those would not be acting up again.
> -- 
> Regards,
>
> Clifford


Several things you can do to check it. First, check the voltage at the 
battery. If it is lower than 12.8 with the car running around 1500, more 
than likely it is a bad alternator. The alternator is on the bottom of the 
engine on the passenger side. You have to remove the underside tray, the 
cover on the back of the alternator, and then the exhaust shield on that 
side. Then IIRC there are two bolts holding it on. Before you pull it, 
though, I'd also check voltage at the back of the alternator with the car 
running. There is also a way to check the voltage in the climate control 
sys, but it's not always accurate. I'll send it to you if you are 
interested.

And, yes, it can cause all kinds of funky problems.

Tony Hoffman