Alternator voltage output

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Mustang1964s
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Alternator voltage output

Post by Mustang1964s » Sun Sep 20, 2020 6:30 pm

I have been getting the T ready for a tour.
The wood is in and waiting for the upholstery.
While waiting, I have turned my attention to the mechanicals.
I made sure it started and ran just like before.
The T is 12 volts, distributor and a Texas T Parts alternator.
While it was running I checked the voltage to the battery.
It was running at 13.6 volts. I was thinking it should be a little over 14 volts.
Even at a higher RPM it still sat at 13.6 volts.

Does this sound like a healthy alternator?
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ChrisB
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Re: Alternator voltage output

Post by ChrisB » Sun Sep 20, 2020 6:45 pm

14.4 V is normal but I think you will be fine with 13.6

Maybe give them a call if you are concerned.

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MKossor
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Re: Alternator voltage output

Post by MKossor » Sun Sep 20, 2020 7:27 pm

At 13.5V the battery will be maintained definately without risk of boiling out the electrolyte or over charging.
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CudaMan
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Re: Alternator voltage output

Post by CudaMan » Sun Sep 20, 2020 8:41 pm

13.6 will be fine. :)
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Re: Alternator voltage output

Post by GrandpaFord » Sun Sep 20, 2020 8:50 pm

Steve,

How long has the battery been sitting? With the same current input, as the battery becomes more charged the voltage goes up. The voltage may be due more to the battery than the alternator.
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GrandpaFord
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Re: Alternator voltage output

Post by GrandpaFord » Sun Sep 20, 2020 9:04 pm

Steve,

You may want to try charging the battery with a battery charger and then try the alternator again. If you have a hydrometer, check the specific gravity of the acid. After charging, let the battery sit overnight and then check the voltage. It should be about 12.4 volts. How old is the battery?
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Re: Alternator voltage output

Post by Tmooreheadf » Sun Sep 20, 2020 9:30 pm

All Texas T alternators I have put out 13.6 volts when new and still do. One is 10 years old. The oldest battery of the 3 is 5 years old.
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Re: Alternator voltage output

Post by TRDxB2 » Mon Sep 21, 2020 11:49 pm

When was the last time your Voltmeter was calibrated?
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