rebuilt alternator still only getting 10 volts at batt.

[sammygon1]

I drove the car home a couple of nights ago the red alt. light turned on and stayed on the whole way.

I tried to start the car in the morning and the battery was dead. So I assumed the alternator gave out and the drive home drained the battery.

My battery was due for replacement so I got a new Optima. I also had the alternator rebuilt. I just reinstalled it the alternator and now the red alt. light is out but I'm still only getting 10 volts at the battery with the car running.

Could my VR be bad as well? Any ideas as to why the voltage is so low.

Thanks, Sam

[Early_S_Man]

Sam,

It sounds like you didn't fully charge the Optima before attempting to put it in service ... and, yes, the VR is a likely culprit!

[sammygon1]

Originally posted by Early_S_Man
Sam,

It sounds like you didn't fully charge the Optima before attempting to put it in service ... and, yes, the VR is a likely culprit!

Actually I had it on the charger all night. I think the voltmeter I have is crap. Thats what I get for spending only $20 at Auto Zone. I'm going to buy a nice one today and recheck. I know the Marchal VR is NLA do you have any idea how to wire in a new one. The one I have seen has a 3 prong plug.
Thanks,
Sam