Electrical Problems

[Petrograde]

has anyone else had this problem?:
I seem to have power surges,.. when I'm at a low RPM with with A/C and radio on, my voltmeter drops to around 12, and my lights dim. If I turn everything off,... my voltmeter reads over 16! and my lights get brighter!
I took it back to the dealer, they confirmed that I have an electrical problem. They replaced my alternator,... and the problem is still there.
I guess they called the Ford Engineering guys about two weeks ago, I still haven't heard anything back.
I was just curious if anyone else has had this problem.

[Constable]

Voltage regulator perhaps?? I don't know if our cars have an external unit or not. If it's inside the alternator, then I guess it can be ruled out (since it's already been replaced).

[engine23ccvfd]

I think the car doesnt idle high enough to create the amps necessary to run the lights, AC, and other electrical components. Try putting the windows down when idling and everything is running mine drops to 11 Volts.

[RF Overlord]

^^^what engine23 said^^^

Mine did the same thing until Jerry raised the idle speed during my dyno-tune. Now idles about 700 RPM in drive...

[Petrograde]

My first thought was the voltage regulator too, but after a brief search ... I didn't find one. and of course, I was looking for a small rectangular box with a wire leading to the alternator, so if it looks any different than that I missed it!
Thanks for the input!

[SergntMac]

I have these power surges, and I used a CarChip EX to monitor my voltage from the OBDII port. My high was 14.5 and my low 12.5, so, I think everything is okay. Maybe if they had used a full sweep dial on the gauge, you would see more accurate readings.

There is an accurate digital volt meter available from Nordskog gauges that plugs into the lighter that could do a better job than the OEM voltmeter...IMHO

http://www.nordskogperformance.net/m9025.html

[martyo]

I started tracking my voltage too using the CarChip. I will gather data and post my results soon.

[Bigdogjim]

Hey! My dealer said they were not familiar with the Ford engine??
(hows that for service)

I had the Ford SVT dealer check it out and said the ilde was too low??

I just live with it.....