Low volts and amps; was alternator

[Jeff Miller]

Not a lot of information to go on, could take some testing to find if
the gauges are correct, if there is a short, etc.

If it is charging when plugged into shore power, it should charge the
same when on generator power (same chargers are used).

It should settle down after a while to a low charge rate (current), and
around 13v. If the current and voltage stay 110a/11.5v for an extended
period, it sounds like you have a substantial short somewhere, there
should be smoke.

Once the current/voltage settle down on shore power, try starting the
engine and run up to ~1200rpm, check the gauges again. turn off shore
power and see if the voltage/current stays as it should.

I don't have an '84-1/2 up PT chassis wiring diagram with me, but if it
is the same as the '84-'86 FC then don't expect the dash voltmeter to
be even close with the key on. Check voltages at the batteries with a
voltmeter.


- Jeff Miller
http://www.wanderlodge.net
http://www.millercoachworks.com



--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Sidney Breese"
<ssbreese@a...> wrote:
> Some of you may remember my alternator belts broke. I just put the
> belts on my alternator and took Max for a spin. It registered about
> 100 amps and 11.5 volts. The amp meter went to 0 and the voltage 10.
> I turned on the generator and got close to normal for a couple of
> miles and then it did the same thing. I checked the alternator and it
> showed 11.5 volts. That may have been feedback from the batteries.
> I'm ready to buy a new alternator, but with the generator not
> supplying power to the chargers, think it might be something else.
> When I hooked up to shore power I got over 110 amps and 12.5 volts at
> the dash. Any suggestions? I need to get this solved as we are
> heading the California in a week!
>
> Sid Breese
> 85PT40
> St. Joseph, MO