95 Cobra charging system, what else to check?

[webshot]

Ok I have a 95 Cobra that is stock. But the charging system is not working correctly. Things I have looked at:

Battery is brand new. And had it tested when I bought it.

Took alternator off and had it tested and it can back good.

Looked at all the connectors for alternator and they look good.

What are some other things I can check or try to diagnose this issue?

 

[Venom351R]

What are the symptoms that it is doing to give you charging issues. Let us know exactly whats going on more so then just having charging issues. Is it dying after its run for so long, does it die sooner then that...exc exc..

 

[HISSIN50]

Also try to give feedback taken with a DMM. The stock gauge is not accurate enough for diagnostics.

 

[webshot]

Yea I am looking at the stock gauges. It just drains the battery, I have not driven it to the point where it cuts off while driving. But for instance, I had a new battery before this one. I drove it around for about 15 mins, then let it idle for about 5 mins. Stopped the car, got back in it and it was drained. Took the battery to get tested and charged. Repeated the above same thing. Eventually that process killed the battery, thus I got a new one.

But I will get some readings to report. Hissin50 are you referring to me checking the voltage to the battery when the car is running? Or some other test?

 

[revhead347]

I would see if you can get the car down to Autozone or Advance. They do charging system checks on the car for free. When the car is shut off, it should have about 12.8 volts on the battery. It should go up to above 13V at idle, and about 14V off idle. The testers at the auto parts store will at least give you and accurate voltage. Check the main ground to the block, make sure it isn't corroded or loose. Also, there is a wiring harness near the battery that often gets unplugged. This wiring harness controls the alternator.

Kurt

 

[webshot]

Sad have to ask this question, but revhead where would I find the main ground? I will look for the harness you spoke of as well.

Appreciate the advice guys.

 

[revhead347]

The main ground is essentially the negative battery cable. It runs down from the battery to the driver's side of the engine. It attaches to the engine on the side of the timing cover where there is a stud. It is probably not your problem if the starter turns fine with a full charge on the battery. The battery cable also has a lead off that grounds to the core support behind the driver's side headlight.

Kurt