Over the last six months I've noticed my volt meter reads approx 12 VDC or batt. voltage at start up and takes several minutes to show 14VDC. Yesterday the check gauges light came on and the volt meter is not showing a charge just batt voltage. Does anyone have expertise in this matter? Alternator or EVR in pcm problem? Can I ground the field terminal to check alternator output? Info would be appreciated.
Thanks

 

Time for the big Leece Neville upgrade! Get'cha a big, short frame Leece-Neville 110-555 JHO 160 Alternator from a truck shop and bolt it in. I saw a guy on a snow plowing site do this back in 2004. It's pretty easy with his instructions.

Here are some of the pics he took

 

Your grids were pulling the voltage down at start up. That is normal.

Now your alternator may have died. I forget where the voltage regulator is. It isn't in the alternator or on the fender but you can look it up. Simply download the FSM. Bench test the alternator. If good, there are instructions somewhere to install an external alt. If bad, chain stores sell them for ~$190.

 

Brushes are common failure on high milage units. Generally the slip rings are damaged and replacement of alt. is called for. You can buy a direct replacement 160 alt on internet for less than $150.00 if look around. The regulator is intergal part of PCM on right side cowl. Very relaible with wiring or alternator more likely.
Both wires to rotor for output control go through PMC. Do not short one wire. remove connector and touch alternator leads with 12v and a ground. This will full field alt and show charge.

 

Gentlemen, thanks for the response. Seems like these problems never have a easy solution, Had the alternator checked in Oct. while trouble shooting a dropping out of lock-up problem, tried all the cures, foil, clean grounds, APPS and nothing worked. Problem went away when I cleaned and remounted alt., the case wasn't making a good gnd. to frame I assume.
The slow voltage has been going on even in worm weather. Grid heaters ? The battery's are new oct. 10
The EVR (electronic voltage regulater) description in the service manual refers to a pulsing gnd. to control the alt. output, there for a solid gnd. would put the alt. in full output ??
I'll try it dozer's way gnd. one term. and 12v to the other just for drill.
The battery's have been on charger for two days now and shows 12.6v, started engine this morning and the alt. started charging, although slowly as before. Battery's are new as of Oct. I guess it's just watch and see what develops.
Thanks, sorry for being so long winded.

 

Problem solved, loose connection on one field wire.