1998 V70 Alternator Voltage Low when running car

[yanga001]

Hi Everyone,

So a few days ago the car seemed to stumble on startup to the point where i though it was misfiring (no codes stored). The dash seemed to flash lightly a bit and when i put it under some load it starts to go fairly dim.

Ive checked with VOLFCR the running voltage and it dips down to 12.3 volts with the radio (aftermarket), lights, high beams and vents running.

I had a previous issue with a battery terminal not seating correctly in any vehicle so the battery is new new (mfctr march 2020).

Ill try some load tests later this week to determine exactly what it is. I normally run a small inverter 100w which has been beeping up a storm lately with all things loaded. I have access to a few parts alternators from a wrecked v70 so if its a simple swap then that may be the way to go.

Will check the wires later for signs of degredation

[BEJinFbk]

There are a lot of things that can
cause problems like this between
the accessory items in the car and
your alternator. Cables, connectors,
bad fuse sockets, etc. Especially in
an area where they have a lot of
salt or other corrosives around for
snow and ice melting.

Before you go down that road,
have you checked alternator’s
output directly at the unit’s
positive post? Do this using
the alternator case as ground.

If you still see voltage running
low at idle, you may be right
about the alternator or it’s
internal regulator/brushes.