[Cloud9...68]

Whoops, I accidentally posted this in Modifications...



On top of the stumble issue I'm battling with my car, I noticed today that the voltmeter gauge was reading just above the 12 V (maybe 12.3). The alternator is relatively new, so I'm thinking about replacing the voltage regulator. Paragon has a Bosch unit for $47, and an "aftermarket" one for $15.51. Is it worth paying extra for the Bosch? Thanks.

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.

[Anchorman]

An indirect answer - I had purchased a new OEM regulator from Sunset Imports with the intention of replacing my current (original) regulator. However, I've now ordered the headlight cable set from IceShark and he includes a regulator with that kit. So, I'm not going to be using the new regulator I have. If you're interested, I'll let you know my cost tomorrow (I know it was considerably less than $47).

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.

[Greimann]

Double check your instrument panel volt meter at the battery with a hand held VOM. The 968 gauges are notorious for being deviant.



I just replaced (a year ago) my voltage regulator with the Bosh unit. All was good on the in-dash gauge until recently. The voltage seemed to have dropped by several volts.



(Insert valley girl accent) I am like OMG - what is up with that? (discontinue valley girl accent <img src="/forum/images/smilies/968/smile.gif" class="smilie" alt="" /> )



Checking the dash gauge with a VOM. All is well. The gauge is having a bad day or something. I don't know the resolution yet to this anomaly.

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.

[Cloud9...68]

Yeah, I checked my voltage reading with a VOM and got a nice, solid 13.5V or so. But then I checked the reading on the gauge, and it was reading higher than before as well, though not quite as high as the VOM, so I don't know if the regulator is acting up, causing the voltage to actually fluctuate, or if the gauge is just being flaky. Next time the gauge reads low, I'll immediately hook up my VOM and see where it reads. Damn, I was hoping I had a lead on my stumble problem (if the system voltage is really >1V below spec, I imagine it could effect the operation of several of the sensors, possibly causing my hesitation?). Oh, well, back to the drawing board...

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.

[Greimann]

The voltage regulator will drop charging voltage when it gets warm. This is by design. When cold you should get 13.8 to 14V. When warm ~13.5. The intent is that you initially top off the battery and then back off the voltage to prevent overcharge and outgassing.

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.

[sp4149]

Dave,

Is this voltage drop as the engine warms, a good indicator of voltage regulator condition? I had heard this attributed to worn brushes on the alternator. I have to check to see how much the voltage drops on our 968, but it does go down noticeably on the dash gauge after driving the car. This has been somewhat worrisome at night, but if this is to be expected that is reassuring.



-sp4149

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.

[Greimann]

The only way to judge the health of the voltage regulator is to measure the voltage at the battery with a handheld VOM. The instrument panel gauge does not have accurate enough graduations to tell you what is really going on. Like I posted before, almost 14 V when cold and about 13.5 hot. Once you have compared the instrument panel gauge with a VOM, then you can monitor the situation and notice if it changes.



The other way to judge voltage regulator health is to actually remove it and inspect the brushes. The photos below show a worn one and a new one.

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.