Re: 12.5 volts max

[Robert Houk - WorkGroup Server Firmware <Robert.Houk@East.Sun.COM>]

   My battery in the 4kq is dead, and when I start the car (conveniently
   parked on a hill) and measure the voltage at the battery, it is only
   12.5 volts.=A0 Also, when the radiator fan comes on, the voltage drops =

You should see 14+ volts, Audi (Bosch) typically (IME) only runs in the
high 13's...

With a "dead" battery, it will suck down the voltage. Hopefully, after
a while it will rise to 13-14volts . . . (Hint: Do ***NOT*** disconnect
the battery and try to run the car, you will likely fry everything even
remotely electronic! The battery acts as a "damper" (giant capacitor)
to "absorb" voltage surges and spikes -- easily 100+ volts!!!!!)

   to
   12.3 volts.=A0 If I turn on every electrical, the voltage drops into =
   the
   11's.=A0 What are the possible causes of insufficient charging voltage =
   to
   the battery?=A0 I'd suspect the voltage regulator, but the lower =
   voltages
   under load makes me think there could be other explanations.

Try with a good charged battery before reaching any conclusions. If
you have a good Hall-sensor ("Clamp-On") ammeter, you can also check to
see how much current is flowing into the battery...if you're seeing
40/60/80 amps, you're lucky to see 12 volts; if you see no current,
you have a problem (e.g., regulator, etc.).

Good luck.

					-RDH