Got a problem with the Batter/Alternator/Charging system. It has turned a bit cold here in WV - lows in the 10-20 and daily highs in the 30's.

Battery is showing 12.6V @ rest. Output @ idle is 14.4V. With a full load (ie lights, radio, heater fan on, rear defrost on & wipers) the output drops to 12.4-12.5V. By reving the engine to 1800rpm the output comes back up to 14.6V. Naturally, the lights dim and the wipers travel more slowly.

The Battery is an Autozone Duralast (600 Cold Crank Amps, 750 Cranking Amps) that is about 2years old.

I'm looking for suggestions on dealing with this.

Naturally, many will suggest a Optima Red or Yellow top. Second, some will suggest a new alternator. I'm not planning on doing any welding, running a huge stereo, or adding excessive lighting.

I don't believe that the alternator is bad. But, the battery is a touch low @ rest - according to the FSM it should be 12.7-12.9V. Anything else, I'm missing or should think of??

Thanks in advance.
Andrew

 

Voltage Regulator?

 

On 's, those are built into the alternator.

 

If you're concerned, have the battery tested. All else sounds fine and 1 tenth of a volt could simply be the tolerance of your meter.

 

that output seems fine... somewhat sounds liek the alternator might be underpowered as you may be drawing more current than its supplying, but other than that since you dont want to upgrade the alt, there isnt anything wrong....

 

May try replacing the battery cables with a larger gauge. Just a thought.