Voltage gauge needle fluctuates ??? Any ideas?

[LTNMUP]

On my 94 5.0 5-speed, the needle on the voltage gauge will fluctuate left to right. It does it on a regular basis, but occassionally is solid in one place. Also, there have been times where under acceleration, the needle will take a big dip to the left, then back to it's normal operating location.

I've replaced the battery and the alternator/voltage regulator, and still the same thing......

Any ideas?

Thanks in advance

Kelly

 

[urban96]

either a bad alt or a bad gauge... try getting a voltmeter and check if that still moves around a lot, if so then i would say its the alt.

 

[CManT1914]

I know mine will dip when I flip on my fan switch, or my radio, or my headlights. Then anytime my sub hits, it will dip a little bit. It might just be your accessories putting a load on it.

 

[HISSIN50]

Bad connection would be where I start. Are you sure the alternator cable is right on the alternator and on the power distribution block?

Good luck.