I have a 96 Ram 2500 Diesel 218k miles and has been very good to me but recently the voltmeter started tweakin' out and is charging higher than usual. The alternator tested good and the voltage regulator is inside the ECU I hate to spend that much to replace it and not be the problem. Help me....

 

There is a voltage regulator in the ALT. The regulator inside the PCM does not control the vehicle voltage. It only controls the circuits that are tied into it.

I would look at that ALT 1 more time.

Good luck.

 

I was told by the auto parts store that there wasn't one in the alternator hmmmm I think I may check it one more time, thanks.

 

you dont need a degree to work the counter at an auto parts store. dont always trust them.

 

Mine runs high too, probably to high, one thing I'm gonna have to look into but nothing of mine has burned up yet....

Its around 15v

 

yeah mine just started recently charging at around 15v could it have something to do with the new stereo i installed?

 

First measure your voltage with a separate meter because you may not even have a problem. Most vehicle meters are there to let you know about big changes and aren't very accurate. If a decent digital meter shows 13.5 - 13.8 when the battery is fully charged, all is good.

The easy way is a cheap cigarette lighter connector from an auto store with wires attached to volt meter clips. Wrap the connects with electrical tape, plug it in and watch what happens when the battery gets fully charged as you drive.


Allen