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Old 07-03-2010, 07:53 PM   #13
paul2748
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Join Date: May 2010
Location: Midland Park, NJ
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Default Re: Ammeter vs Voltmeter

A voltmeter will only show what the alternator/generator is putting out(subject to the regulator). If either is not putting out, it will show no more that 12 volts (battery). Batteries did not typically hold more than 12 - `12.5 volts so a voltmeter, if reading something like 12 - 12.5, will show you that the charging system is not working correctly. Generators/alternators should put out 13.7 to 14.3 volts when charging correctly.

Haven't seen a good rationale yet for an amp meter over a volt meter.
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