C-2 Charging problem - NCRS Discussion Boards

C-2 Charging problem

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  • Dave Van

    C-2 Charging problem

    1966 with battery voltage at 12.75 Volts. After the car is started the voltage jumps up to 15.2 V. Voltage regulator seems to be o.k. That is when I move the points it cuts out the voltage (back to 12.75). The question is "why is the alternator putting out 15.2V and is this too excessive?" Or is it a voltage regulator problem?
  • Jack H.
    Extremely Frequent Poster
    • April 1, 1990
    • 9906

    #2
    Re: C-2 Charging problem

    Theoretically, a fully charged battery should register 13.2 VDC (2.2 V per cell) and readings below this suggest battery is not fully charged. When engine starts and v-reg senses the need to charge, it turns the alternator 'loose' to supply current as needed and voltage level you see will be in lock-step to the alternator's ability to deliver current. Regardless of what's stamped on the alternator housing, if it's ever been rebuilt/restored, the internal rotor and windings may well have been 'upgraded' to higher current output components logically giving you the 'high' voltage you observe.

    If you use a smart charger to get the battery fully charged, you should see the period after initial engine start decrease in time and the system come into 'typical' regulation reasonably quickly. If you want, individual components (v-reg, alt) can be removed and individually tested at just about any auto parts shop.

    On the issue of voltage changing when you play with points, your description is too muddy for me to clearly understand what you're seeing....

    Comment

    • john pickens

      #3
      Re: C-2 Charging problem

      In the not too distant past I ruined a battery in a 1969 Camaro by running it
      with voltage measuring over 15.5. I would recommend taking alternator, regulator and battery to a specialty alternator/starter shop and have all three
      checked by those who do this for a living. Unless you're quite sharp and well supplied in which case all can be checked as outlined in the repair manual and supplements.

      Comment

      • Michael H.
        Very Frequent User
        • July 31, 1998
        • 180

        #4
        Re: C-2 Charging problem

        It depends where you're reading voltage. If there's a problem with the battery holding voltage and you're trying to use the alternator to charge a dead battery, you'll ruin the alternator.

        Comment

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