[rl968]

When car is started, volt gauge on dash doesn't move until I give a little gas. I measured battery voltage and before i give it gas, shows 12 volts, so would seem alternator is not sending current to the battery at that point. After i give it gas and the gauge moves up, battery shows 13.6, which suggests alternator is then working. Any thoughts on why giving gas starts the voltage flowing? Is this a battery cable issue? Alternator is relatively new as is battery. Thx

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[DaveN]

I would suspect you have a sticky gauge and the alternator jolt from revving the car forces it into action.

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[banditsc]

Is the exciter wire securely fastened to the alternator?

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[rl968]

Yes, alternator connections are tight. I didn't think it would be a gauge issue because it seems to be reading what the alternator is putting out, which is nothing until I jolt it as you say.

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[banditsc]

Maybe have battery checked? Possible you have a bad cell in the battery.

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[flash]

varying voltage, rising with rpm, is a sign of a fused regulator.

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[rl968]

It doesn't vary other than as described. Once it senses voltage and registers on the gauge, it acts normal and stays steady.



It is not the battery.

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[tamathumper]

May seem like a very basic question, but you had some work done recently it seems, so are all the connections tight? Even the ones on the battery and starter? Are all your other gauges acting normally?

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[rl968]

Yep, starter and battery connections are tight, all other gauges work. Starter and alternator were both replaced over a year ago., Car starts and runs normal, just doesn't seem to initially get power from alternator. Is there a relay that may be suspect?

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[flash]

alternators put out power based on the regulator.

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[rl968]

So maybe alternator is issue? If that is case, I'm inclined to leave it, pretty minor thing.

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[gbarrier]

regulator. While you're at it go to a good auto electric shop and get a new adjustable regulator. Set it to about 14V and enjoy.

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