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john70t john70t is online now
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Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: midwest
Posts: 40,371
12.6V and above is just a chemical surface charge, similar to static electricity. No potential.
Also, the alternator doesn't send many amps at idle speeds. Needs more like 2500 rpm.

It sounds like a classic bad battery, but you can load test it using the car:
Remove the fuel pump fuse so it won't start.
Turn on headlights, rear defroster, fan, etc. for an electrical load.
Test battery level while cranking.
Shouldn't fall below 9V.
Many of the electronics need minimum 9V to function even if the engine is spinning.

Alternator may be weak, but get a battery first and go from there.
Make sure the grounds(chassis and engine) have good connections and interior of cable isn't green. Vaseline melts and wicks though the cable protecting it.
Old 07-13-2012, 08:13 PM
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