On 1995 U300 - what is the normal charge to batteries from the alternator? Gauge indicates between 12 and 13
Should this be higher? Fix?
Start by measuring voltage with a voltmeter at chassis batteries at idle and 1,000 rpm. Then check same on the center terminal of isolator if equipped. Need two people. Lights off, dash AC off.
"Between 12 and 13" is too low.
With engine at idle, headlights off, A/C off, you would normally expect to see the dash voltmeter above 14 volts.
Do not trust the dash gauge until you verify it is accurate by doing the checks suggested in the post above.
Let us know the results.
Mine reads 13.2 sometimes , never over 13.4 Clean all of the batta connections and behind the dash grounds. The gauge may be reading low or the isolator may be weak ,. leaky .
Get a second opinion, Read with a meter at the battery and poke around behind the dash with a meter.
My dash voltmeter reads low and my Silver Leaf reads high which used to read low and when
I adjusted it I got it high which I will readjust sometime. My cigarette dash plugs are accurate.
Thanks to all for suggestions. I bought a meter -- batteries at 'resting state' = 12.68
Started coach with load on batteries (lights, fan, etc...) Alternator charging at 14.12V !!!
All is good in the neighborhood!
Thanks again.
Jim Wallace
1995 Grand Villa U300
Jim,
With dash voltmeter reading low, be sure to tighten the under-dash (raise dash to access) ground connections. Another symptom of poor ground is a change in gauge readings when the headlights are turned on.