Trouble starting

[Howard]

Doesn't the alternator provide the power when the engine is on? If the alternator gives more juice than the battery (which it should), that's what I should reading at the battery minus wiring losses, right?

Also, forgot to mention but I had very slow power windows yesterday.

 

[Howard]

hmm. that's low. do you trust your meter? check it on your good vehicles, they really should be ~12.5 off and ~13.5+ engine on.

My meter has historically been good to me. I'll check my other car tomorrow.

 

[5150MyU]

If the battery won't take/hold a charge, the alternator is doing all it can to keep up.
Probable reason for slow windows.

 

[pcgeek11]

Do I really have to rip out the alternator? I'm absolutely not doing that (I like having 10 fingers).

No they can test the alternator and battery in the car jump start it and drive it over to Autozone or other parts house.

 

[Bartman39]

If the alternator is bad he might not make it to the parts house...😳

 

[pcgeek11]

If the alternator is bad he might not make it to the parts house...😳

I'm assuming he has a friend or two. Surely one would be willing to follow in a functional vehicle.

:/

 

[Illyusha]

If the battery is 3-4 years old in a harsh climate, buy a new one.