Electrical Gremlins

[lwalwa]

I've been chasing this electrical problem for some time. The battery doesn't seem to quite get a charge.

I started the afternoon measuring 13 volts across the battery terminals, engine stopped and by measuring 13.7 volts across the battery with the engine running. I charged the battery a couple weeks ago. Parked, the battery seems to hold a charge. I took the car for a 30 minute drive and when I returned home, I measured 13 volts across the battery, engine running and about 12.7 volts with the engine stopped. I let the car sit for about 3 hours and measured 12.6 volts, engine off and 13.3 volts with the engine on.

I've cleaned an re-installed the transmission grounding strap. The alternator light appears to work correctly.

Any suggestions what to check next?

Larry Arne
'71e targa.

[Mr9146]

I'm no electrical genius, but your regulator might be going away. This would lead to irregular charging characteristics.