alternators charging at different rates

[hg adams]

My passenger side alternator is charging at 14.8 and the driver side is charging at 12.8. Also, the in cab voltmeter is staying right at the line between yellow and green. Usually it stays right in the middle of the green. I was wondering if the driver side alternator has a problem. I checked the all the bolt on connections on the alternators, but I did not pull the plug with the two wires running into it to check it. Both belts seem to be at the same tension. Maybe someone can help.

 

[Ken_86gt]

I would take in to AZ for them to check that alternator, sounds like it is going bad.

 

[burbn10]

I would take in to AZ for them to check that alternator, sounds like it is going bad.

I agree.

 

[Keith_J]

That sounds like the regulator isn't working correctly on that generator. This is the generator which supplies the 12 volt loads and is the most heavily worked alternator.

No generator light on?

 

[hg adams]

Neither generator light is on in the cab.

 

[Ken_86gt]

Does the light come on when the key is turned to the run position? If not the bulb may be out and the source of your charging problem.

 

[hg adams]

Only the Gen 2 light comes on when key is in the on position.

 

[hg adams]

Is Gen 1 on the driver side and Gen 2 on the passenger side?

 

[Keith_J]

Is Gen 1 on the driver side and Gen 2 on the passenger side?

Correct. Passenger side it the "high" side generator, the negative terminal is at +12 volts with respect to ground.

 

[hg adams]

It was a burned out bulb on the gen 1 light. Replaced the bulb, and now both alternators charging at 14.8. Thanks a bunch Ken_86gt. I would have never figured that out.

 

[4bogginchevys]

Altenator 1 is drivers side, a good way to remember is to think about the "process". Alt 1 (drivers) is where it all begins.....1 goes in to alt 2 (Pass) where it is roughly doubled.....same with batt 1 (front)...starts 12 volt and roughly doubles at the end of 2 (rear) ......maybe this will help some make "sense" of it all since this is such a commonly asked question and is very important to know for everyone who owns and plans on working on a CUCV.