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System Voltage

B bdMember
My 71 Pantera still has the original voltage regulator and alternator (as far as I know). I have hung a DVM across the battery terminals and watched the system voltage swing up to as high as 15.6vdc especially just after I first start the car. This seems too high to me. I took the voltage regulator to Autozone for a bench test and it passed. Could the alternator be the problem? This wouldn't be a problem except that my Rockford Fosgate separate power amplifier for the stereo system cuts in and out while I am driving the car. I don't think there are any other electrical issues with the car as it will sit for a couple of weeks at a time without anything draining the battery. Seems to me the voltage regulator should regulate the system voltage. Any ideas? Thanks.

[This message has been edited by BD (edited 05-08-2004).]
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bosswrenchbosswrenchMember
System voltage regulation in the Pantera is a problem when one is looking for precision. One Swedish owner noticed, as I did, that his gauges read differently with the headlights on than without (loading the system), and is working on solid state controls for his instruments. While I'm not a good enough electronic engineer to tell you how to fix this, I suggest this direction (an on-board solid state voltage controller) for your efforts.
B bdMember
This afternoon I ran the tests that are outlined in the Ford service manual for the charging system. These tests indicated that the voltage regulator should be replaced. For about $11 I got an electronic regulator and put it on. System voltage is maintained at about 13.5vdc with the engine running. So much for Autozone's test of my old regulator.
marlinjackmarlinjackThe Machinist #5723 AMARGOSA MACHINE 'Running on Empty- Middle of Nowhere'
I run a LED digital Volt gauge. Very Accurate. YES! It will show a constant Voltage of 13.5 AFTER the Battery has "Recovered" it's charge from starting the engine or from 'sitting' for a period of say, one week. While driving on the highway at speed I have witnessed the Voltage at 14.5-14.6 Maximum. This is normal with Amp gauge showing a 'Light' charge of 10-15 Amps (Battery NOT fully charged). As the Battery gets closer to being fully charged, the Indicated Voltage will proportionally Lower to 13.5 Volts Minimum with the Engine Running at cruising speed and at Idle(Charging System Active). With the Engine turned OFF the Reading of a Fully Charged Battery is 12.4 to 12.5 Volts so there you have it!! These readings were taken at the center console 'Cigar Lighter' curcuit coming off of fuse #9, The 'Parking/Running' lights were switched ON, ONLY while the Engine was running. These readings are the exact same as when I also used a Digital VOM. Regards, Marlin.
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