I just installed a VM to an ignition powered fuse also. Is there an "unregulated" power lead under the dash to watch true charging voltage as mentioned in the original posting?

Peter P.
Portland, OR

I agree with the below answers, plus on my voltmeter its reading depends on what electrical equipment is operating. This is because it's connected to a circuit on the 'I' switch position (accessory) and the use of the radio, blower fan, etc. causes a bit of voltage drop in that circuit, while battery voltage as seen on a multimeter, is around 14.1V.
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Bob (81-244GL B21F, 83-244DL B23F, 94-944 B230FD)

Keep in mind that your voltage regulator also varies the charge level with ambient temperature (in the engine compartment). A cold engine compartment (and presumably battery) will be charged up to a high level -- as temperature rises, the regulator will cut the charge to a lower level.
You can see this especially in the winter -- when I start out, my voltmeter shows almost red (as yours does), while after driving around for a while, the voltage moves down to the middle of the range. In contrast, in the summer, the transition takes place sooner.
It sounds like everything is good in your system.

Greg:

If you're not noticing any other voltage issues, there's most likely not a problem. 12 o'clock on the 240 voltage gauge is actually 13 volts, and the alternator always makes more power above idle. If you start noticing slow cranking, etc., then the battery may not be getting enough juice. Otherwise, I wouldn't worry.

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Guid ('88 244DL 231k, '92 745 180k)