• Mustang Forums
  • 1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
  • Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech

Alternator/Gauge reading question

  • Thread starter Thread starter 89-5leet-eh
  • Start date Start date Apr 1, 2009
8

89-5leet-eh

New Member
Feb 16, 2009
13
0
0
Apr 1, 2009
#1
  • Apr 1, 2009
  • #1
Have a question regarding the charging system on an 89 LX 5.0L.
At 1500-2000 rpm( with accessories running) my gauge reads 12-14 volts approx- mostly at 12 but at idle and with accessories running such as windshield wipers,heater, headlights the gauge drops down to 8-10 .I also noticed the wipers slowing down at idle.I recently replaced my alternator that was making a slight buzzing/humming sound( and killing the old battery) with an alternator off a 88 2.3L(slightly used).I was told at the parts store the alternators are the same on the 5.0L and 2.3L so i figured id be able to use it.I installed a new Interstate battery appropriate for the car and have no corrosion on any wires.So...is it normal for the guage reading to drop to 8-10 V at idle or should the alternator keep it near 12-14V.A new alternator is close to $300.00.At this point im assuming that ill need one.What should the guage be reading with a properly functioning system thru the rpm ranges?Thanks alot for any feedback.
 

jrichker

StangNet's favorite TOOL
In Remembrance. Thank you for your contributions
Mar 10, 2000
27,512
2,813
234
Dublin GA
Apr 2, 2009
#2
  • Apr 2, 2009
  • #2
The alternator should read 13.2-14 volts at idle with no accessory load. At 1500 RPM, you should see 14 volts with normal accessory load (lights, wipers, low blower).

Have the alternator checked out in the car. Most auto parts stores will do it for free.

If your alternator is defective, consider replacing it with a 130 amp 3G alternator from a 94-95 Mustang. See Stangnet 3G install sticky 3G Alternator Install: A How To - Mustang Forums at StangNet. You can buy a used 3G alternator from the junkyard for $25- $50 and have the parts store test it before you install it on the car.
 

HISSIN50

"How long does it take to get help in here?
15 Year Member
Nov 29, 1999
31,179
34
129
Apr 2, 2009
#3
  • Apr 2, 2009
  • #3
Also be sure you're using an accurate voltmeter (the stock gauge is not accurate for diagnostics, nor does it take into account chassis-wiring voltage-drop).

If you drop much below 11 V, the battery light should come on and the car can start to run funny.

Take Jrichker's advice on the 3G and enjoy.

Good luck.
 
8

89-5leet-eh

New Member
Feb 16, 2009
13
0
0
Apr 2, 2009
#4
  • Apr 2, 2009
  • #4
alternator

Thanks for responses and info,i will certainly check into 94-95 alt.
I wondered if pulley sizes were diff from the alt on the 2.3 and the 5.0 so dbl checked .The 5.0L pulley is smaller by about a half inch approx in diameter so maybe its as simple as that.Will try n swap them around first and see if it keeps the voltage up.I didnt think of it before making this post but i took my 93 LX out for a drive and watched the voltage guage ( amazing how i never paid it much attention before ) With everything running full tilt high beam on, wipers at full ,heater blowing full, rear defog and stereo going the needle fluctuated slightly from 14 on the dash guage and never dropped, either at idle or thru to highway speed.Thanks again for the advice, this forum has helped me out many times and i appreciate the time you all take to reply to questions.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

M
Resolved 1988 Foxbody - Overheating Summer
  • MDrisc
  • Oct 26, 2025
  • Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech
Replies
16
Views
713
Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech Jul 17, 2026
fasterthangas
F
SURGING IDLE / NO IDLE CHECKLIST FOR 1996–1998 MUSTANG GT (4.6L 2V) - Work In Progress
  • Noobz347
  • Aug 30, 2025
  • 1996 - 2004 SN95 Mustang -General/Talk-
Replies
0
Views
761
1996 - 2004 SN95 Mustang -General/Talk- Aug 30, 2025
Noobz347
3g alternator with battery relocation question
  • DeathProof88
  • Nov 28, 2023
  • 1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
Replies
14
Views
2K
1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk- Dec 4, 2023
AeroCoupe
SURGING IDLE / NO IDLE CHECKLIST FOR 1999–2004 MUSTANG GT (4.6L 2V) - Work In Progress
  • Noobz347
  • Aug 30, 2025
  • 1996 - 2004 SN95 Mustang -General/Talk-
Replies
0
Views
950
1996 - 2004 SN95 Mustang -General/Talk- Aug 30, 2025
Noobz347
"Tuning" Vortech kit with FMU discs- question
  • nicholase
  • Jun 22, 2024
  • 1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
  • 2
Replies
28
Views
3K
1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk- Jun 13, 2025
Noobz347
Share:
Bluesky Email Share Link
  • Mustang Forums
  • 1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
  • Fox 5.0 Mustang Tech
Menu
Log in

Register

  • Forums
  • What's new
  • Media
  • Resources
  • Contact
  • Sponsor
X

Privacy & Transparency

We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:

  • Personalized ads and content
  • Content measurement and audience insights

Do you accept cookies and these technologies?

X

Privacy & Transparency

We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:

  • Personalized ads and content
  • Content measurement and audience insights

Do you accept cookies and these technologies?