I just have a question about the charging system. I noticed that the last week or so,(since the temp dropped 20 degrees) that my volt meter is showing about 15 volts while running down the road. This seems a little high to me, and makes me wonder if my alternator is Overcharging?. Any input on this would be appreciated.

 

It is normal for the alternator to put out a higher voltage at colder temperatures because it takes higher voltage to charge up a cold battery. The voltage regulator in the alternator has a thermistor in its circuitry to increase the regulated voltage with a drop in temperature.

 

Does it come back down after a while , mine runs just over 14 about 14 1/4 volts. feel the battery after a long drive does the battery feel warm and is the top wet , then its over charging. but have it tested to make sure.

 

it stays around 14.5-15.0 i'll check battery temps tomorrow though. Thanks a lot for the replies

 

Normal, mine is the same.

 

"Camper Package" had a higher output alternator, right?

Just thinking out loud.

 

'higher output' only refers to higher amps, not higher voltage.

 

Oh Yea I didn't take camper package into consideration,thanks

 

If I'm not mistaken the battery tray on the driver side has a temp sensor in it that measures the temp of the battery. The colder the batteries are the more voltage the charging system puts out to charge the batteries.

Come this summer you will see the reverse of this. The voltage will sink down into the 13's through the hot summer...

This is totally normal! I would highly suggest that you check the water in the battery offen! Use Distilled water!

 

Uh, I think George was right there (amp's). Either way your #'s sound fine.