Voltage fluctuations
#1
Track Day
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I am experiencing intermittent voltage fluctuations where the guage and voltmeter readings JUMP from the normal 14V to 16V or 16.5V. This is occassional, and apparently not connected to any other conditions with the car during these "incidents". I am presuming that it is simply a quirky voltage regulator. Turning on ALL accessories; lights, blower, rear defroster, etc. will lower the voltage somewhat, to approx. 15.8V
Am I missing anything here? Are there other conditions besides the voltage regulator that can cause a spike in alternator output voltage?
Are aftermarket voltage regulators available for the Bosch Alternator?
This is on my '88 S4 Auto.
Thanks in advance.
Tim
Am I missing anything here? Are there other conditions besides the voltage regulator that can cause a spike in alternator output voltage?
Are aftermarket voltage regulators available for the Bosch Alternator?
This is on my '88 S4 Auto.
Thanks in advance.
Tim
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Track Day
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The alternator voltage on the guage and also confirmed by a voltmeter will occassionally "spike" to approx. 16.5 to 16.7 Volts. It doesn't appear to be triggered by anything; just comes and goes on its own. Not affected much by rpm.
#6
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Yes, the accessories "speed up", which causes huge concern about burning up electronics due to excessive voltage.
I'm in Prince George; frozen north.
I'm in Prince George; frozen north.
#7
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PG is a little far away for a personal visit.
If your confident that the 'spikes' are confirmed then the regulator is gone........a new/rebuilt alternator is in your near future.
If your confident that the 'spikes' are confirmed then the regulator is gone........a new/rebuilt alternator is in your near future.
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#9
Man of many SIGs
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Originally Posted by the flyin' scotsman
If your confident that the 'spikes' are confirmed then the regulator is gone........a new/rebuilt alternator is in your near future.
#11
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I would change the regular as soon as possible. Your electric motors on the car might survive, but the computer and other electronic components can be sensitive to these spikes.