Ok I have an alternator problem that i just simply cant figure out, most of the time the voltage is between 12-13 volts, but if i turn on the headlights, voltage will drop to around 11.8 and the car can barely idle. I think its not charging right or maybe the voltage regulator is bad, but I took the alternator out and carried to a local alternator shop and they told me that it tested fine. I've looked over the diagram in FAQs and i believe its right. I don't know what else to do, I'm considering switching to a Taurus alternator.

 

What else do you have in the system (radio, amps, non-stock beam bulbs, etc..).
If you have a lot of aftermarket products it could be loading down the system.

 

In the second pic it appears that there is rust on the B terminal and if so then clean that up. Another thing is are you relying on the voltage gauge or are you taking a reading from the B terminal via a multimeter to get an accurate voltage reading?

 

and be sure the post on the rear of the alternator is snug, i generally find them loose which causes alot of charging issues(which also appears corroded in the last picture). i would remove the alternator and brush off all connections and be sure they are ALL relatively tight.

 

I have a pioneer headunit, with a 1000 watt amp, but i tried it with it disconnected and i still got around the same readings. besides that, just a alarm system with aftermarket power locks and a turbo timer.

ok I will clean that up. I have a turbo timer that also shows voltage, but i also checked it at the battery and at terminal B to make sure it was accurate.

Will do.

 

My 1000 watt amp with 2 12" kickers killed my Brand NEW, not rebuilt, alternator from CarQuest. It took a while, but still killed it. My lights would flash with the music. Next thing you know it, it fails...

 

Hmm my lights don't flash. But thanks for the heads up.

 

Quick update. I cleaned up all the connections and tightened everything. I'm getting 14 volts at terminal b and 13.6 at the battery. Is this good or should i still be worried. I also have a brand new battery and terminals.

 

Normal as can be.

 

turn on all loads in the car and recheck it, voltage doesn't mean a damn thing if it has .1 amp pushing it.

 

x2

 

Ok I got time to check it and with all the load on, it came up to 12.9 at the battery. and it goes up to 13.2 if i hold the gas pedal above 1500 rpm