Too many volts ?

[cliffords]

If my voltmeter reads 14v sometimes 14.5 . Am I making too many volts?
If my instruments want 12 v , am I giving them 14 ?
I do not have a voltage regulator, isn't the alternator supposed to do this?
I seem to be only able to write in questions today , don't I ?

David

[Miket]

It's fine, alternators are designed to charge at 14 to 14.5 volts.

[cliffords]

Originally Posted by Miket

It's fine, alternators are designed to charge at 14 to 14.5 volts.

Thanks.Does it mean the instruments are getting 14volts ?

[craggle]

14.6 or 14.7 volts is quite normal for an alternator.

The gauges will be seeing this voltage too. You may need a voltage stabiliser if you have electronic gauges.
The only electronic gauge on my car is the fuel level but this seems to work fine without a stabiliser.

Craig.

[Miket]

Originally Posted by cliffords

Thanks.Does it mean the instruments are getting 14volts ?

Yes, but they will be ok, all mine where electronic gauges, they where fine for 6 years without a voltage stabiliser.

[Stevednorris]

Hi David,

According to Smiths, if you've got electronic guages, you need a voltage stabiliser on the fuel, oil temp and water temp guages.

[Stevednorris]

Originally Posted by Miket

Yes, but they will be ok, all mine where electronic gauges, they where fine for 6 years without a voltage stabiliser.

I bow to experience .

[cliffords]

Originally Posted by Stevednorris

Hi David,

According to Smiths, if you've got electronic guages, you need a voltage stabiliser on the fuel, oil temp and water temp guages.

I have got Smiths , where do I get a stabaliser that gives 12v rather than 10V.
Apparently they are 12 v guages

Thanks

[andicole0]

If they are Smiths Classic or Cobra gauges I thought they were 10V and would need a stabiliser like this.

Andi.

[James Stern]

Are you sure that you are actually putting out 14V? My gauge consistantly reads 2v low. Happy 4th of July!