Charging Problem HELP!!!

[GTO Jimmy]

Ok ever since I bought the car it has had charging issues. I put a brand new battery and brand new alternator, but it does no good. It has already killed two new batteries. While driving it barely sits on the top of the red, and half the time the car wont crank when I go to start it and it needs a jump to crank.

So does anyone have any other ideas of what the hell is going on here?

 

[jrichker]

Any of the major auto parts stores will check the charging system for free while it is still in the car. Do that first and find out whats' wrong. New parts have a habit of going DOA without warning.

 

[GTO Jimmy]

Ok well they checked the charging system and said it checks out fine, so now I am totally clueless. What other componenets could there be that would cause this?

 

[jrichker]

Connect a voltmeter to the battery and run the engine at 1200 RPM. You should see 13.8-14.5 volts. Less than that indicates a problem.

 

[soylentgreen]

The charging systems in these cars are notoriously weak. I think the stock alternator is only 75A. I had trouble for years...particularly in rainy or snowy conditions at night. When you have the wipers, headlights, and defoggers on...the voltage really drops from the load.

A solution I found was an aftermarket upgrade to a 130A alternator like those used in the SN95 cars. All problems solved...strong charging...bright headlights...etc.

The kit I got was from PA Performance. Have a look here: PA-Performance is dedicated to offering high quality products to every consumer utilizing the Internet. - PA Performance - You Only Buy Quality Once ! 1.877.471.8010

The product install also includes a larger cable between the alternator and battery. It's also fused with a high-current fuse and fuse holder. The install is pretty straight-forward and the instructions are excellent. A little knowledge of electricity would be helpful, but not really necessary.

Have fun!

 

[HISSIN50]

Your sig notes 'electric fans' - I'd definitely consider the advice on the thread and do a 3G if you haven't already.