First big drive since lockdown - Alternator

[Nobby]

Hi guys

Been hardly driving the car since COVID happened, but spent the last 3 days driving around Norfolk and racked up about 600 miles so far.

Noticed yesterday that with the lights on full, air con on and cruising that Voltage was teetering around 13 as opposed to the usual 14.

With everything off and idling it went back to 14v.

Is it worth trying a regulator swap or shall I just take the plunge on a new alternator?

Cheers
Chris

[Nige_RS4]

I suspect that is normal - the alternator charge voltage usually drops when you turn a few ancillaries on. As long as it's showing 14+V with nothing turned on the all is working well.

[IchBautAuto]

That happens, I'd keep an eye on it though as a 150A alternator should be able to keep up with normal demand for this car, which is everything on. viewtopic.php?t=123156 may help

[skyegtb]

I changed my alternator many years ago. I swapped it for a brand new one. On my last service for a bit of fun I fitted a new regulator (cost £14 off eBay) to the old alternator and re-fitted it to the car. 3000 miles later it is still working perfectly, so, yes, definitely swap a new regulator in, there is nothing to lose!
I think you might even be able to fit a new regulator without removing the alternator from the car too, but it would be a bit tight.

Hi guys

Been hardly driving the car since COVID happened, but spent the last 3 days driving around Norfolk and racked up about 600 miles so far.

Noticed yesterday that with the lights on full, air con on and cruising that Voltage was teetering around 13 as opposed to the usual 14.

With everything off and idling it went back to 14v.

Is it worth trying a regulator swap or shall I just take the plunge on a new alternator?

Cheers
Chris