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Alternator or wiring problem? 700

HiHi
My alternator is putting out 14 AMPs,but with the headlights on the output drops to 12.20. Is this normal? If not,do I have a defective (new) alternator?
Today I was unable to start the car,after I had driven it for 1 hour with the lights on.I was able to start it 2 hours later. The battery is also new (2 weeks). Igntion switch has also been changed. Neutral safety switch and starter look ok.
Could it be a wiring problem?
Tks for your input.
--
90 740 176k,00 S40 50k; Gone but not forgotten 80 240 265K and 87 740 340k both first and only owner








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    Alternator or wiring problem? 700

    With engine OFF: Check for a slipping alternator belt.

    Try turning the alternator pulley with your fingers.
    Push on the cooling fan blades behind the pulley.
    If it slips,(i.e, doesn't move the crank/fan/etc. with it),
    tighten the adjuster just enough, not too much.

    Replace the belt if it is old. Use a Volvo OEM belt if you can.
    They seem to be better quality. Some old belts tend to slip (& squeal) even if you over-tighten the adjuster. New alternator belts grip better & slip less.








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    Alternator or wiring problem? 700

    14 volts, not amps.

    Check wiring. Connections to alternator, starter and battery. Grounds. Make sure everything is clean, dry and tight, with shiny metal.

    You have poor charging; it will be the alternator brushes, which any auto electric shop will replace and bench test for about $20.

    An hour sounds about right for a no charge situation. It's not expensive to deal with if you are smart about it, just don't get talked into a "new" alternator which is a complete rip-off.

    --
    Stef (rewired harness, rebuilt Bosch 55 ampere alternator Interstate MTP-65 battery, speedo/odo converted to miles, scotia blue 81 245 B21A SU M46 3.91)








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      Alternator or wiring problem? 700

      Tks sstef.Yes I meant volts not amps. Tks again
      --
      90 740 176k,00 S40 50k; Gone but not forgotten 80 240 265K and 87 740 340k both first and only owner







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