My car isnt holding a charge. The alternator is new, and the battery isnt new, but isnt old. Can anybody give me some tips on finding the problem?
The voltage regulator on 86 and later model years are built into the alternator.garystocker said:Did the problem start with the installation of the new alternator? It could be the voltage regulator...but the voltmeter tells all...what does it read??
I got a optima red and paid 104.00garystocker said:If the problem existed before the alternator it cannot be the voltage regulator as they come as a unit...
More proof it is a battery. Any quality battery you like will work. I have never purchased an optima but I hear good things about them. what does one cost>?
garystocker said:listen. Batteries last 5 years if they are a good brand.
Cheapies last 2 years.
If your voltmeter reads that a charge is produces but not retained...it can only be the battery. (Obviously make sure the connections are clean, sanded, corrosive spray, new pos & neg cable could not hurt.
I would start with a new QUALITY battery and ford battery cables.
I would be interested in knowing how you make out. Let mw know if you find out more.
gary