Voltage Spikes

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Old Sep 15, 2018 | 08:40 PM
  #1  
pettrix's Avatar
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Voltage Spikes

I sometimes get voltage spikes on my 1972 Olds. It will jump from 14.5 to almost 16 volts and jump back. Not sure why it does it sometimes and other times it doesn't. This is observed on my aftermarket voltage gauge and the interior lights can be seen to fluctuate when it does this.

I have an AC Delco alternator that is internally regulated.
Old Sep 16, 2018 | 10:15 AM
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Best guess is the regulator is sticking, might just need a rebuild.
Old Sep 16, 2018 | 05:42 PM
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Originally Posted by classicmuscle.442
Best guess is the regulator is sticking, might just need a rebuild.
Is it "dangerous" if the voltage spikes to 16 volts?
Old Sep 16, 2018 | 05:54 PM
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Yes, if it stays there a while. It will boil the battery. Its probably time for a new voltage regulator.
Old Sep 16, 2018 | 08:30 PM
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Originally Posted by oldcutlass
Yes, if it stays there a while. It will boil the battery. Its probably time for a new voltage regulator.
The alternator is the newer AC Delco internally regulated version so I would have to replace the entire alternator.

Would AutoZone be able to test the alternator to see if the internal voltage regulator is bad?

Which brand is better; AC Delco or the AutoZone DuraLast?

Last edited by pettrix; Sep 16, 2018 at 08:32 PM.
Old Sep 17, 2018 | 04:52 AM
  #6  
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Yes they can test the alternator. Also check all of your connections at the alternator, the horn relay stud, and where the original voltage regulator was bypassed to make sure everything is clean and tight.
Old Sep 17, 2018 | 08:42 AM
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Originally Posted by pettrix
The alternator is the newer AC Delco internally regulated version so I would have to replace the entire alternator.
Are you sure you can't get just the regulator for it?
Old Sep 17, 2018 | 08:55 AM
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You can get the internally regulated alternator parts, however that means dismantling the alternator.
Old Sep 17, 2018 | 09:46 AM
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Originally Posted by oldcutlass
You can get the internally regulated alternator parts, however that means dismantling the alternator.
Which is not as difficult as it may sound. Keeping the brushes in place is the only tricky part, and once you see how, it is not a big deal.
Old Sep 17, 2018 | 09:50 AM
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I agree, some are intimidated though.
Old Sep 17, 2018 | 10:19 AM
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Originally Posted by oldcutlass
I agree, some are intimidated though.
True. There are times I should be, but I figure if a person put it together once, I can probably find a way to do it again. Although, I have ruined some stuff taking it apart the wrong way......
Old Sep 18, 2018 | 07:36 PM
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Those alternators are pretty easy to rebuild, I’m sure you can find some YouTube videos with detailed instructions.

You need to get get this fixed ASAP. I had a regulator go bad on my old 87 Cutlass, I failed in the full field position. I didn’t notice to volt gauge pegged, my first clue that something was wrong when bulbs started burning out. The battery smelled horrible, and fried the stereo also. I was 35 miles from home when this happened, I unplugged the alternator and got home ASAP. A new regulator, battery, some bulbs, and a new stereo all was well.
Old Sep 20, 2018 | 12:00 AM
  #13  
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The new alternator had the VR plug is a different spot due to the mounting ear.

Is it OK to remove the 4 bolts and rotate the housing to re-align the VR plug to a different spot?

It will only be a 1/4 turn to get it where needed.
Old Sep 20, 2018 | 02:45 AM
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Yes, you can remove the bolts and re-clock.

Pat
Old Sep 20, 2018 | 07:55 PM
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Thanks for the info!

How TIGHT should the alternator belt be? I read 1/2" in play/movement from resting position. Some claim 1"
Old Sep 21, 2018 | 02:53 AM
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Tight enough so it does not slip. Perhaps compare to your other belts.
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