Voltage Change

[bruce69camaro]

I have a 2000 Sierra 1500 w/ 5.3, 4x4. I've owned the truck for over 8 years and the voltage has always run above the 14 mark.

Recently the voltage has dropped down to 14.0v after I drive the truck for a little.

I checked the alternator output at an idle and it was 14.12v and the battery was at 14.08v.

I run the truck close to 2000 rpm and turn on my headlights, AC, everything that would cause a drain, and it stays at 14.0v.

In the morning when I first fire it up, it goes right back to 14+ and this is what I'm used to seeing.

I hear a small squeal, so I'm replacing the belt, which is original to the truck, in hoping that it may be slipping and causing this issue.

If it doesn't fix this issue, could the alternator be going out and if the alternator is still putting out 14v's, would having it checked out show a problem?

I know I shouldn't complain, but it is a change and it bothers me on why this is happening and I want to address any issues before I take the family on vacation.

Thank you.

 

[patriot]

You may have the regulator (inside the alternator) going bad. I had this issue. It looked good, but a little low, but when I ran the RPMs up with the headlights on, the voltage would drop off dramatically and shut down the truck until the RPMs dropped. Anyhow, alternators aren't expensive.

[gmtech4]

What's wrong with 14 volts ? When it puts out nothing then I'd worry ,,

 

Drive it