1997 Dodge Stratus alternator

JUST ENOUGH2BD

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1997 DODGE STRATUS
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
145,000 MILES

I'm working on a 1997 Dodge Stratus.
I just installed a new battery and read 12.75 vdc with engine off.
After starting the car, I read 12.05 and it continues to decline.
With the car off, I have zero voltage from battery ground to B+ (red cable) on the alternator.
With the car running, I have 35.5 vdc between battery ground and B+ red cable).
I took the alternator to Auto Zone and Advanced Auto and they both stated the alternator tested good.
This is seriously messing with my shade-tree mechanic brain!
Thanks in advance for any ideas.

4 Replies

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

With the car running, I have 35.5 vdc between battery ground and B+ red cable).

Find the problem fast battery could end up exploding-the internal voltage regulator is not controlling the field generation.

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Saturday, August 8th, 2009 AT 8:59 PM

JUST ENOUGH2BD

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Doesn't the zero vdc reading between the battery ground and B+ on the alternator, with the engine off, suggest an open somewhere?
Maybe a fusable link?

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Saturday, August 8th, 2009 AT 9:52 PM

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

With the car off, I have zero voltage from battery ground to B+ (red cable) on the alternator.

You have an open fusible link or the wire itself between battery and alty. See below Good Luck

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Sunday, August 9th, 2009 AT 12:02 AM

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Thanks.I agree totally.
Is it possible that the 35 vdc at the back of the alternator (knowing there's no load because the fusable link is open) is normal?
Sort of like reading 12vdc on a near-dead battery until you add a load and it drops drastically.
Thanks again.

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Sunday, August 9th, 2009 AT 8:47 PM