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This is a misnomer. Electrical system function is gauged by either a voltmeter or an ammeter. The voltmeter measures system voltage, and should read around 18 volts with the engine running, 12 volts with the engine off, and 8 volts when starting. An ammeter, less common, measures current flow between the battery and the alternator. It should read a positive 2 or 3 amps during normal operation, indicating a constant charge to the battery. Just after starting, it should read a higher positive as the alternator replaces the current drained by the starter. If it reads negative, the alternator is not making enough current to meet the car's needs and keep the battery charged. This may be caused by too many accessories (lights, stereo, video,) a slipping belt, or a malfunction of the alternator itself.
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Will alternator still work if the gauge is not?
An alternator does not need a gauge to work. It is used to monitor the output of the alternator.
91 cutlass supreme alternator gauge not reading charge?
If your battery was dead and you jumped it to get it started and the gauge shows your not charging you need to replace the alternator.
What gauge is the black wire with red strip ground from the alternator?
That particular wire is usually 10 gauge.
Why does the alternator gauge peg out at the top intermittently?
Can be a defective voltage regulator.
How do you wire a mooneyes ammeter gauge?
in a series battery, alternator, ignition
Is your battery weak if your voltage gauge moves down?
Weak battery, or weak alternator.
98 ranger replaced alternator and battery but still shows battery light and no charge on gauge?
sounds like your gauge is broken or there is a short in wiring
Why does your battery gauge run low?
my gauge reads 10 volts drive half mile it go to 8 Alternator is defective and needs replacing.
What does the check gauges light mean on a 1994 Chrysler LeBaron?
It means that one gauge is not in the safe zone. Check the engine temp, oil pressure, battery/alternator voltage,It means that one gauge is not in the safe zone. Check the engine temp, oil pressure, battery/alternator voltage,
Why the battery gauge moves up and down while running?
Can be loose connections or the alternator is failing.
Isuzu Trooper LS at start up alternator gauge registers low after 100 feet of driving there is a sound like a belt screeching and then the alternator gauge registers up to normal?
belt is stretched buy new one( serp. or single alt.).
Why does the battery light come on when you accelerate?
The alternator may not be able to keep up to the voltage requirement of the vehicle check voltage output of alternator w/mechanical gauge
