Subject: Re: A/C Fault code #9

[C1J1Miller@aol.com]

SSpangenbe@aol.com (Scott) wrote:

> Also, the volts shown on channel 11 fluctuate from 12.1 to 13.6 as I'm
> driving.  No changes to the load put on the alternator.  Is this normal or
> should I get a new voltage regulator?
> 
==========
Eric Maxon <emaxon@megsinet.net> replied:
(snip)
Once the alternator is going, integrity of the blue wire is not an
issue, so if the voltage drops only when *driving* there may indeed be a
problem with the Vreg/brush block in the alternator (worn out brushes--
should be at least 5mm long at deepest wear spot.)

It's natural for voltage to drop a bit under heavy load (cooling fan,
heater/ac blower, headlights, etc. on) but dropping to 12.1V is not cool
(less than the resting voltage of a fully charged battery so you'll
never get a full charge with this charging voltage.)  
(snip)
===============
Eric:  good post.  Note that Scott is reading voltage through his cc head
unit; Bentley states that if the cc etc. is operating, actual voltage is
likely (from memory) 0.5 to 1.0 v higher than that displayed.  One cause of
the varying voltage could be the blower fan.  Try displaying the voltage with
the fan setting on "low", or if possible, "off".  If you want to be sure, put
car in park or p-brake on, idling, and check voltage:  1) at jump start post
and 2) at battery under the seat.  Make sure the major electrical consumers
are off while measuring (rad. fan, heated seats, headlights, blower fan,
defroster, etc.).
Chris Miller, Windham NH, c1j1miller@aol.com