Consistently high battery voltage

[hughc]

I just started up my 83 sc and noticed my digital voltmeter indicating consistently 14.2 to.14.5 v.

I'm sure it normally reads app. 13v.

Could this indicate a voltage regulator problem?

I'm off to run a few errands and ill see how it behaves.

I'll report back once I return
From my errands and walking old Hunter.

[reclino]

Sometimes high voltage reading is an indication that the battery is sulfated and no longer accepting a charge. Happens often on batteries that are stored and rarely.used. Run by a parts store that offers free battery testing. They can check the cranking amps and verify alternator function nat the same time. A battery that is sulfated will have very low cranking amps, but the voltage check is good.....
14.5 seems high for a 911, with lights, wipers and interior fans running does the voltage drop down to the normal 13 volts? Hard to diagnose a charging system looking only at volts. It's a good indicator to have as it lets you know there is a change in the system that needs a closer look.
David

[Lyle O]

14.2v-14.5v is pretty normal. Nominal is ~14.2v running I think...

[hughc]

After driving for a bit the indicated voltage seems to have stabilised at around 13.8 v.
With head lights, wipers and fan on it shows 12.6 to13.v so maybe as reclino suggested i should have it checked by people with the proper equipment.

I guess its quite possible the battery was low (ambient temp. was +2 C) and the charger was playing catch up.
I'll keep my eye on it for the next few days.
Thanks guys.

[reclino]

I am not an expert on any of this, but have fought with my fair share of German electrical systems. They generally run slightly above 13.3 volts or so which is too low for stop and go short trip driving. More modern cars seem to regulate around 14.3 volts or so, charges the battery much faster. The voltage regulator does allow higher voltage when cold, but as it warms up the voltage goes down. It's very annoying, I am planning a remote adjustable voltage regulator for my 1986 930. Will make things so much nicer.especially when it goes bad you don't have to tear into things and get the ignition coil and fan loose.

[Quickstep192]

Also make sure your voltmeter is accurate. I was recently checking voltages and getting way high readings. I double checked with a high quality meter and discovered that the original meter was way off.

[hughc]

Originally Posted by Quickstep192

Also make sure your voltmeter is accurate. I was recently checking voltages and getting way high readings. I double checked with a high quality meter and discovered that the original meter was way off.

Yes, I did double check the reading with a second voltmeter and the readings were identical
Maybe i reacted too quickly when I originally saw what i thought was a high voltage. I'll certainly keep my eye on it and have it checked by a shop if I feel in necessary. Thx