Alternator/Charging gauge question.

[rackaddict82]

I've noticed my charging gauge isn't very consistent. Sometimes it sits far below 14. (I wish I could figure out how to attach pictures to this) other days it sits a touch over 14. When it's below the 14, DC voltage reads about 12.6. Other times it's at the perfect 13.7 range. Could this mean there is an issue with the alternator? The salesman told me "the battery sometimes isn't in need of being charged..." That sounds like BS! Isn't the alternator output voltage supposed to be consistent? Thanks in advance for any help everyone!

[michigan2500hd]

I'm sure someone can explain better then I but for quite a few years now maybe starting in 07 the alternator charges on demand. It freaked me out first time I saw that happen too.

 

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[rackaddict82]

I'm sure someone can explain better then I but for quite a few years now maybe starting in 07 the alternator charges on demand. It freaked me out first time I saw that happen too.

 

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Oh no kidding! Wow. Yeah I drove my last truck for 12 years so I'm not used to all the extra bells and whistles! ? Thanks for the reply! Very much appreciated!

[O_J_Simpson]

I've noticed my charging gauge isn't very consistent. Sometimes it sits far below 14. (I wish I could figure out how to attach pictures to this) other days it sits a touch over 14. When it's below the 14, DC voltage reads about 12.6. Other times it's at the perfect 13.7 range. Could this mean there is an issue with the alternator? The salesman told me "the battery sometimes isn't in need of being charged..." That sounds like BS! Isn't the alternator output voltage supposed to be consistent? Thanks in advance for any help everyone!

If it stays consistent like you want, plan on replacing a smoked battery at least once a month, until the truck burns down.

[MaverickZ71]

You must be a ex-Ford driver. Same thing happened to me. I was used to the alternator gage needle always sitting in the same spot in my old F-150. Then I got my Silverado and the gages move all over the place. The GM electrical system has sensors that determine when the battery needs charged, and then it shows it charging. Otherwise, the alternator kind of kicks into neutral to lessen the parasitic horsepower and fuel mileage losses, and you'll see the voltage drop, especially in the daytime, on a longer trip, or in warmer weather. You're good as long as it doesn't dip below 12 volts. Essentially, the way GM sets up their gages, any reading between the middle 2 hash marks is the normal operating range.

[rackaddict82]

If it stays consistent like you want, plan on replacing a smoked battery at least once a month, until the truck burns down.

YIKES! I don't want that! ?

[crankman]

Totally normal as everyone posted, now if you want it to push back up to 14v you can turn your headlights on and it will slowly climb back up. Just a trick I learned if it makes you feel better. Its a bit of driving to rise up but it will slowly come up.

[rackaddict82]

You must be a ex-Ford driver. Same thing happened to me. I was used to the alternator gage needle always sitting in the same spot in my old F-150. Then I got my Silverado and the gages move all over the place. The GM electrical system has sensors that determine when the battery needs charged, and then it shows it charging. Otherwise, the alternator kind of kicks into neutral to lessen the parasitic horsepower and fuel mileage losses, and you'll see the voltage drop, especially in the daytime, on a longer trip, or in warmer weather. You're good as long as it doesn't dip below 12 volts. Essentially, the way GM sets up their gages, any reading between the middle 2 hash marks is the normal operating range.

Very helpful! You are correct! I'm an ex- ford owner. Just sold my 2005 f150. 165,000 miles and lots of rear-end and transmission trouble later...

[calgator73]

Totally normal as everyone posted, now if you want it to push back up to 14v you can turn your headlights on and it will slowly climb back up. Just a trick I learned if it makes you feel better. Its a bit of driving to rise up but it will slowly come up.

Or turn on tow haul

 

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[MiamiSilverado1500]

Has anyone installed a larger alternator and which model?? I'm considering this since I'll be adding LED bars, upgraded sound system, and other miscellaneous items.