[Shop-talk] alt or battery?

[Jeff Scarbrough]

On Mon, Aug 20, 2012 at 8:23 PM, Tim <tputland at charter.net> wrote:
> Battery was showing over 13 volts when car was running when she got
> home.

It should read the same at the alternator.  The proper way to test is
to fully charge the battery (disconnected from the car), and then load
test it.  You could also fully charge it and turn the headlights on,
then try to start the car.  Do this while measuring the voltage at the
battery terminals.  Less than 10V, plan on a new battery.  Most of the
big chain FLAPS will test your battery and alternator when they sell
you a new one - but the key is fully charged.  If the battery is run
down, it's not a fair test.

Jeff Scarbrough
Corrosion Acres, Ga.