charging problem

[rowdie- stang]

I need some help, I have a optima red top battery that test good, I also replaced the alternator. According to my gauge my alt is not charging the battery. I have checked grounds and wires. Where does the volt meter get the reading from. Could it be the gauge (it is stock) Also my car has a dead battery after a few days of driving.

 

[Fett]

Stock alt, or upgraded? Did you check the fuselink/fuse?

 

[rowdie- stang]

Its the stock alt, and no I did not check the fuse, didnt know that it had one for the alt

 

[HISSIN50]

Charge the battery and note battery voltage (should be around 12.6 volts).

Start the car and note voltage at the battery. It should be around 14+ volts.
If it isnt, check the 14 gauge fusible link that was mentioned before (it's off the starter solenoid). Then run down the regulator wiring.

I'd note that I have received new alternators that didnt work right - it's possible.

Good luck.

 

[HISSIN50]

Or since you can drive for a couple days, you can take the car to the parts store for a dynamic test - no muss or fuss.

Good luck.