Alternator over charging

The voltage regulator should be on the outside of the alternator. You can also buy adjustable voltage regulators here:

https://www.prancingmoose.com/AdjustableVoltage.html#internal


I got one for my VW which has a Bosch unit... I'm guessing it's similar if not the same as the 308 regulator but you can always email him... he's good about getting back with folks.

 

That's odd, I don't think there is any items in the circuit past the output on the unit..

Anyone??
Something changed on the way home?

Grounded to the frame??

 

I believe the only voltage regulator is a (replaceable) part of the alternator.
I would check voltage at the battery and the alternator big wire.

I can’t think of another regulator.

Or where are you seeing / testing 16+ Volts?


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What does your meter read at the battery when the engine is not running?

 

Also what happens when you put a big load on like the headlights and heater motor

 

I'm curious what your battery voltage is when the car is off.

 

13.8 is kind of low but barely enough to charge the battery, you should have at least 14.2 volts. While running.

 

Would not expect that if stopped, as its a 12 volt battery. Decent voltmeter ?
Voltage regulator is working as the volts are maintained when you put the lights/ heater on. If it had dropped then avr problem

 

A flooded “12 volt” lead acid battery will read ~12.7 Volts at full capacity, when measured after it’s been off the charger or load for a few hours. An AGM battery will be higher, at around 12.8-12.9. A 12.0 volt reading would correspond to a state of charge of 25% capacity, nearly completely discharged.

 

I have got a little digital voltmeter that plugs into the power socket, gives a number readout like a neon style, very cheap from Amazon. Handy to have if you get problems on the road

 

What voltage are you expecting?

 

Mine has a standard battery and 11.8 is about normal if its been sitting, But mine has a tracker fitted which is a constant draw. I get about 13.8 when it is running

 

Any alternator only needs to produce more than the battery nominal volts to charge it. If you start getting the charge volts too high you are going to start blowing bulbs etc.

 

That's your battery telling you it's time to replace it if it can't hold a charge at at least 12.2. A new healthy battery will be a lot closer to 13V.