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Low voltage


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Last weekend I notice that may voltage drops under load.  Reads little over 13v at idle.  It drops when I accelerate and stays low until I go back to idle.  I can’t perceive any power loss.  It’s a 2000 vlx with the monsoon.  Alternator?  To me it seems if it were the alternator the problem would be worse at idle…

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Try having someone move the alternator wires slightly backward, as when accelerating forward and see if it changes.  Could be a bad contact or wire.

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I agree with checking and cleaning all connections first. Here's my thought: As RPM increases more charging current is produced and as you increase current you also increase voltage drop across any bad connection or damaged wire.

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With a helper and digital volt/ohm meter, you test at the back of the alternator under the same conditions to see if the voltage loss is true or the gauge is mechanically lying. If the voltage is proper, then repeat at back of the gauge and keep work back until you find the source of the drop. 

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Thanks.  I’ll clean everything first and see if it solves it.  The multimeter will be hard for me as it’s tough to find an assistant.  My kids are still a little too young to help.  

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