Date:         Thu, 7 Nov 2013 07:11:56 -0500
Reply-To:     Larry Alofs <lalofs@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Larry Alofs <lalofs@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Cigarette lighter Outlet voltage
Comments: To: Andre Fiedler <fiedlerac@gmail.com>
In-Reply-To:  <CA+Oead80735DCRYr62H80+8NZ6e3GGhe8U-2RP_CcDhw3rS3mA@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

Yes, what Scott said.  That voltage is definitely low.  I assume you
measured it with the engine running at idle speed.  Seems like Scott would
have asked you to be more specific.   :-)
  If the voltage varies with engine speed and will reach 14V  or so at
higher speeds, I would think that the alternator itself is weak.  If it
seems to be regulated at 13.3 or less, I would try changing the
regulator/brush module.
  I would add that the voltage drop as you get further from the battery
depends on the amount of load on that circuit.  With no significant load
there should be no significant drop.
   Check the voltage at the battery and the alternator at various engine
speeds and report back.

Larry A.




On Thu, Nov 7, 2013 at 12:11 AM, Andre Fiedler <fiedlerac@gmail.com> wrote:

> I have an 89 Westy and am measuring about 13.1 to 13.3 volts in the
> dashboard cigarette lighter plug.  Compared to my other more modern
> vehicle  (2012 Ford Edge with 14.2 volt reading) this  seems rather low
> voltage.  I am  curious if this voltage is normal or if what I am seeing
> is  unusually low?
> Thanks.
> Andre Fiedler
> Manitou Springs,Co
>