voltage issues. need some help.

[pappabear1973]

Ok. So on my 1988 cabriolet i have a battery that tests good and a New alternator. Now when i am driving with the lights on and on high beam the charging needle sits right at twelve in the red/green hash marks. If i put them on low beam then the charging needle goes up to twelve and a half. That's all of the way in the grean. If i turn on a turn signal then the needle bounces in sync with the turn signal between charging and not charging. Again the alternator was replaced only a couple of months ago and the battery tests fine. So what would be causing this? Also my lights are dim as are my interior lights. Thanks.

[ps2375]

First would be to check accuracy of gauge. Second is the wire you connect it to, depending upon loads on that particular wire, it could be effecting reading. Next would be to check and clean all pertinent connections into and out of the fuse panel, they tend to get leaked upon and that can cause issues.

[kamzcab86]

Normal.

http://www.cabby-info.com/electrical.htm#Drop
http://www.cabby-info.com/electrical.htm#Lights
http://www.cabby-info.com/gauges.htm

Bottom line: don't rely on the VDO gauge (check voltage at the battery & alternator) and relay the headlights.
_________________
~Kamz
1986 Cabriolet: www.Cabby-Info.com
1990 Vanagon Westfalia: Old Blue's Blog
2016 Golf GTI S
"Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance." - 孔子

[ps2375]

And be sure ALL grounds are tight and clean. Battery to chassis and chassis to motor.